Steph Cooke | 26 Apr 2024 | All LGAs Community Local projects News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is inviting local groups and organisations to apply for grants aimed at preserving war memorials across New South Wales.
Ms Cooke said applications for the Community War Memorials Fund opened on ANZAC Day, 25 April 2024, with grants of up to $10,000 available to help ensure the presence of local war memorials is secured for future generations.
“As we’ve seen during the recent ANZAC Day commemorative events across the region, war memorials are a meeting place for local communities to come together and honour our service men and women, allowing us the chance to reflect upon the sacrifices made by our veterans over the years,” Ms Cooke said.
“It is just so important that these memorials are protected to ensure all generations understand and remember the sacrifices made during wars and conflicts, which is why the Community War Memorials Fund was set up to help conserve, repair, and protect war memorials across NSW.
“Funding can assist with a range of conservation projects including condition assessments, specialist cleaning and repairs, security measures, and improving access, which are all important aspects of how we manage the places of commemoration that help us acknowledge our military history,” she said.
Since the establishment of the program in 2008, grants have been provided for a wide range of projects including:
• Conservation assessments;
• Honour roll repair;
• War memorial cleaning and conservation work;
• Arborist advice for war memorial trees;
• Security measures for memorials;
• Repairs to war memorial halls; and
• Improvements to the accessibility of memorials.
Applications for this round of funding close 24 July 2024.
Steph Cooke | 25 Apr 2024 | All LGAs Community News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has joined hundreds of locals at ANZAC Day commemorative events across the region, to pay tribute to Australian service personnel who have served our country in conflicts, wars, and peacekeeping operations.
Ms Cooke started the day at the Wombat Dawn Service, where she delivered the keynote address, before marching and laying wreaths at the ANZAC service at Murringo, the service at Anderson Park in Young, and the afternoon ANZAC service in Jugiong, where she also addressed the gathering.
“ANZAC Day holds a special place in the hearts of Australians, serving as a poignant reminder of the courage, resilience, and sacrifice displayed by our servicemen and women who helped secure the freedoms we enjoy today, and the values we hold dear,” Ms Cooke said.
ANZAC Day signifies the anniversary of the day Australian and New Zealand soldiers landed on Gallipoli in 1915 as part of the Allies’ invasion during World War One.
“Since the 25th April 1915, over 100,000 Australians have lost their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” Ms Cooke said.
“ANZAC Day is a time to honour and remember those Australians who lost their lives for our country, and to also recognise the more than 1.5 million men and women who have served throughout history, as well as those who have contributed through auxiliary roles, both overseas and on the home front,” she said.
Ms Cooke paid tribute to the ongoing dedication and commitment of our modern-day veterans.
“The service and sacrifice of our serving personnel continues to inspire us all, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support and recognition they deserve,” Ms Cooke said.
“Today, as we stand united in remembrance, let us also express our heartfelt gratitude to the families of our servicemen and women, whose unwavering support and sacrifice should never be taken for granted,” she said.
Lest we forget.
Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke attended a number of ANZAC Day events across the region, including the march and service at Murringo.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has written to the chair of the parliamentary inquiry investigating regional crime, requesting committee members hold a public hearing in the area.
Ms Cooke said the inquiry is examining various aspects of crime in the regions, including causes, impacts on individuals and communities, and potential solutions. It aims to outline targeted strategies to improve safety and security for residents.
“The inquiry is currently seeking input from residents across regional New South Wales to help identify issues related to crime in rural and regional areas,” Ms Cooke said.
“This is a really important opportunity for our community to share their experiences and perspectives on crime in our region. The input from members of our communities can play a vital role in shaping recommendations that will address regional crime and enhance community safety.
“To that end, local residents have the opportunity to contribute through written submissions to the inquiry committee; submissions are being taken until the end of May, and that process is a really important way for us to ensure our voices are heard.
“I have written to the committee chair requesting that panel members conduct a public hearing in our region, to ensure they see firsthand the circumstances we’re facing, including 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.
Ms Cooke said precious time has already been lost after the government initially rejected the idea of an inquiry.
“Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Country Mayors Association – led by Chairman Mayor Jamie Chaffey – along with the CWA, NSW Farmers’, the Police Association, and Shadow Police Minister Paul Toole, we’ve finally been able to get this inquiry up and running,” Ms Cooke said.
“It’s certainly a case of better late than never, and I encourage everyone in our region to take part in this process. Your submissions can help create meaningful change and ensure our community’s unique needs are addressed in future policies and legislation,” she said.
*Photon: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke discussing the regional crime inquiry with Acting Sergeant Aimee Bannister at the Wallendbeen Police Station.
Steph Cooke | 16 Apr 2024 | All LGAs Community News Youth
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has launched NSW Youth Week 2024 in the electorate with the opening of the new Bland Shire Youth Centre in West Wyalong.
Ms Cooke joined with Bland Shire Council Deputy Mayor Tony Lord to officially open the centre, which she said is an exciting way to start Youth Week across the region.
“Youth Week is officially here for 2024 and I couldn’t be more thrilled to kickstart this year’s activities with the official opening of the brand-new Youth Centre here in West Wyalong,” Ms Cooke said.
The first of its kind in the town, Ms Cooke said the Youth Centre provides a safe place for young people to gather after school and on weekends, to study and spend time with friends.
“This is an investment in our future; by providing a place for young people to access support programs and activities, we can create an environment for them to flourish, and look towards a future filled with opportunity and promise,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke explained the Youth Officer at the centre, Macey Cowan, was part of the initial group of young people who first petitioned the council back in 2020, for a space dedicated to local youth.
“Not only is this centre a wonderful asset for the young people of the Bland Shire, it’s also a perfect example of what can be achieved with the passion, dedication, and drive I so often see among the younger generations within our communities,” Ms Cooke said.
“At just 20 years-of-age, Macey has demonstrated that big things are possible when you advocate for change and pursue your passions; in her role as Youth Officer, she is a great example to others of the creativity, enthusiasm, and resourcefulness of our young people,” she said.
The Youth Centre was made possible thanks to contributions from previous Federal and State Coalition Governments, including $152,192 under the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund.
The Youth Centre includes study spaces, television screens, video game consoles and other IT equipment, as well as an outdoor area. The centre will be open after school on select days, as well as one day on the weekend. For information on NSW Youth Week 2024 activities contact your local council or phone the electorate office on (02) 6382 2399.
Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined with members of the Bland Shire community to celebrate the official opening of the new Youth Centre. She was joined by Deputy Mayor Tony Lord, and Youth Officer Macey Cowan, to mark the occasion.
Steph Cooke | 10 Apr 2024 | All LGAs Community News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is calling for nominations for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, held to honour the quiet achievers in the community.
Ms Cooke said the award – now in its 17th year – aims to recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers across New South Wales who selflessly dedicate their time and effort to make a positive impact in their communities.
“Volunteers play a crucial role in building stronger, more connected communities, and their tireless dedication deserves recognition and appreciation,” Ms Cooke said.
“Whether it’s supporting local charities, mentoring youth, or advocating for important causes, volunteers are the backbone of our society; they are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make our communities better places to live.
“This award – hosted by The Centre for Volunteering – is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on their invaluable contributions and express our gratitude for all that they do, so I’m thrilled to invite nominations for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards,” she said.
Ms Cooke said there are eight categories for the awards, with nominations open until Friday 14 June 2024. Winners will be announced at a ceremony to be held later this year.
“I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to nominate the outstanding volunteers in our communities; let’s celebrate their remarkable contributions and inspire others to join the spirit of volunteerism,” Ms Cooke said.
“So if you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their community service, make sure you nominate them, and of course spread the word that nominations are open,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 26 Mar 2024 | All LGAs News Roads and Transport
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging residents to take extra care on the road as motorists across New South Wales plan their upcoming Easter holiday weekend.
“There will be increased traffic on the roads over the long weekend, so if you’re planning on a long journey, or simply driving around town, your safety and the safety of your passengers and other drivers, should be a top priority,” Ms Cooke said.
“So, whether you’re heading off on holiday, hitting the road to enjoy the various activities and events in the region, or catching-up with family and friends this Easter, if you’re out on the roads, please take care.
“Most crashes occur on country roads; we must remember that road safety is a shared responsibility, so when you’re on the road, think about how your actions can affect the safety of your family, friends, and those around you,” she said.
Ms Cooke said double-demerits will apply from Thursday, March 28 to Monday, April 1 inclusive, with NSW Police out in force taking a proactive approach to road safety this Easter.
“It’s always a good idea to plan ahead – including regular breaks – allowing plenty of time to get to where you’re going,” Ms Cooke said.
“Always observe the speed limit and drive according to road conditions; obviously don’t text or use your mobile phone unless it’s hands-free; ensure you and your passengers all wear seatbelts; and it should go without saying, but definitely don’t drive if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
“So far in 2024, the NSW road toll is higher this year compared to the same time in 2023, so please, let’s all play our part in making sure we get to our destinations safely, and ensure the Easter long weekend is a memorable one for all the right reasons,” she said.
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.
