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 | 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 | 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:
Steph Cooke | 15 Feb 2024 | All LGAs Community Community resources Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has used a visit to Young by Police Minister Yasmin Catley to once again highlight the need for a bi-partisan parliamentary inquiry into rural and regional crime.
Ms Cooke met with the Minister in her Young office, before they together joined local police for a tour of the Young Police Station, where the group discussed a range of issues specific to the Cootamundra electorate, including the need for additional police funding to address problems around infrastructure and staffing.
“I never miss a chance during parliamentary sitting weeks to invite the Minister to the electorate, so I’m certainly pleased to be able to welcome her to our part of the world, where she had the chance to tour both the Cootamundra and Young Police Stations,” Ms Cooke said.
“The Minister was receptive to the matters that I raised directly with her; she was grateful for the on-the-ground feedback that I was able to provide around matters such as the need for a new Police Station in Young, as well as the need for additional funding for police stations and accommodation right across the electorate.
“I used the meeting to again discuss the community’s concerns around police numbers, and the ongoing calls for 24-hour policing in some areas.
“I continued to urge the Minister to reconsider her position on a proposal put forward by the Country Mayors Association, for a parliamentary inquiry into rural and regional crime.
“An inquiry would give us a clear picture of the changing landscape around law and order, both in terms of police resources and criminal activity, and would provide a clear way forward on combatting these issues, which are not going to improve without a concerted effort to address the unique challenges facing police in rural and regional areas.
“At the end of the day, I left the Minister in no doubt about the need to ensure we have enough police on the ground – with the resources they need – to proactively address and deter criminal activity, and make rural areas a no-go-zone for potential wrongdoers.
“Our police do a wonderful job – day-in and day-out – looking after our communities, and I certainly let the Minister know how grateful we all are to them for their hard work.
“Policing it is not an easy task, and the officers of our four Police Districts – Riverina Police District, Hume Police District, Murrumbidgee Police District & Chifley Police District – go above and beyond, to protect us all.
“The Minister’s visit was a welcome opportunity to sit down and discuss at length the specific issues in our Cootamundra electorate, and I will continue to have ongoing conversations with her on these and other matters going forward,” she said.
Key issues raised during the meeting included:
New Police Station for Young;
Narrandera Police Station;
Country Mayors Association’s proposal for a rural and regional crime inquiry;
Potential implications for police resources following de-privatisation of the Junee Correctional Centre;
The need for greater police presence in parts of the electorate;
Calls for 24-hour policing in some areas;
The need for police numbers to keep pace with population growth;
Domestic violence case numbers, and the need for adequate support services;
Matters regarding firearm licence delays/removals; and
Stock theft across the electorate.
Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke, with Police Minister Yasmin Catley, and (back from left) Deputy Commissioner Paul Pisanos APM, Inspector Adrian Matthews, and Superintendent Paul Condon.
Steph Cooke | 06 Feb 2024 | All LGAs Bland Shire Coolamon Shire Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cowra Shire Hilltops Council Junee Shire Narrandera Shire News Temora Shire Weddin Shire
As the New South Wales Parliament returns for the first day of sitting for the year, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has raised concerns around parliamentary transparency and accountability, after the NSW Labor Government opted to minimise the sitting calendar in 2024.
Ms Cooke said the NSW Parliament is scheduled to sit for 48 days this year, which contrasts starkly with other years in which the Parliament has sat for up to 65 days under previous Coalition Governments.
“Fundamentally, less sitting days means less Question Time and less scrutiny,” Ms Cooke said.
“The decision to cut the number of sitting days, drastically reduces the ability of the Parliament to put forward bills, scrutinise legislation, raise matters of community concern, and ask questions on the record.
“I am very concerned about what this means for transparency and accountability in decision making, and I think the public is entitled to question why the NSW Labor Government is trying to avoid scrutiny,” she said.
Ms Cooke said that despite the shortened calendar, she will use the time to advocate for key issues across the Cootamundra electorate.
“Just last week I convened the 6th annual Cootamundra Summit, bringing together representatives from the local governments that make up our wonderful electorate. The Summit was a chance for me to reaffirm my advocacy agenda for the year,” Ms Cooke said.
“Chief among the priorities identified is securing a safe and secure water supply for various communities, including for Boorowa residents, which is a project we’ve already made great inroads in achieving, with news this week the Government – together with Hilltops Council – has agreed to invest close to $1 million in a feasibility study to investigate further the option of a Harden to Boorowa water pipeline.
“Ensuring we have adequate police resources for our communities was another key priority identified at the Summit, and I will continue to lobby the Police Minister to ensure our towns and villages are equipped with the staff and infrastructure we need, and most importantly, deserve.
“Other issues on my agenda include continuing to fight for the Tresillian in-patient beds to be included in the Cowra Hospital redevelopment, as well as continuing to campaign loudly for the de-merge of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.
“Road and rail funding, including the rollout of safety upgrades at local level crossings are high on the list, and I will be demanding answers around the delay in commencing work on the Wallendbeen Bridge.
“This is by no means an exhaustive list; it’s going to be a big year and I look forward to once again working hard to achieve meaningful outcomes for the more than 170 small communities that make up our wonderful Cootamundra electorate,” she said.
Photograph caption: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke in the NSW Legislative Assembly Chamber.
Steph Cooke | 02 Feb 2024 | All LGAs Bland Shire Coolamon Shire Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Cowra Shire Hilltops Council Junee Shire Narrandera Shire News Weddin Shire
Representatives from local governments across the Cootamundra electorate gathered in Harden today for the 6th annual Mayoral Summit hosted by local MP Steph Cooke.
Ms Cooke said the summit – held at the RFS Fire Control Centre – brings together mayors and general managers from across the region to discuss pressing issues, share insights, and collaborate on finding solutions to some of the challenges facing our communities.
“There are nine Local Government Areas (LGA’s) within the Cootamundra electorate; it’s a big area with over 170 small communities represented in the room today – each confronting their own unique and individual set of challenges,” Ms Cooke said.
“The annual Cootamundra Summit is an opportunity for us all to come together and listen to the issues facing different LGA’s, which then helps consolidate my advocacy agenda for the year ahead; I’d like to wholeheartedly thank the mayors and general managers who attended the summit and engaged in some really constructive discussions,” she said.
Ms Cooke said a range of problems and projects were discussed including road and rail opportunities, pothole repairs, issues around emergency response management, community transport needs, as well as the importance of mental health support services.
“We had a really constructive day and discussed a broad range of issues from water security to police resources, through to vital health infrastructure projects, and changes to councillor code of conduct requirements,” Ms Cooke said.
“There was also a lot of discussion around the impediments local governments face when it comes to securing state government investment, and utilising it in the most sensible and streamlined way possible, and I will be raising that, along with the other issues canvassed, with the NSW Labor Government,” she said.
Attendees were given the chance to ask questions directly of Water & Mental Health Minister Rose Jackson, along with representatives from the offices of the Minister for Emergency Services, and the Minister for Local Government, as well as of Shadow Corrections Minister Mark Taylor, and Shadow Agriculture & Regional NSW Minister Dugald Saunders.
“I certainly thank them all for their participation and making themselves available to hear first-hand what our priorities are on the ground here in our Cootamundra region,” Ms Cooke said.
Steph Cooke | 29 Jan 2024 | All LGAs Junee Shire News Roads and Transport
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is demanding answers from the NSW State Government over why work is yet to commence on a major level crossing upgrade in the area.
Ms Cooke said an upgrade of the level crossing on Goldfields Way near Junee was due for completion at the end of 2023, but as yet, nothing has been done to improve the crossing, which she says, remains a safety risk.
“The level crossing on Goldfields Way – which is located on a busy highway in the heart of the Riverina – has long been a concern for locals who, 12 months ago, were promised a complete safety overhaul of this site,” Ms Cooke said.
“Residents were led to believe work would soon get underway on the installation of high-intensity LED flashing lights, bells, and retro-reflective boom gates.
“But as of today, nothing has been done; the NSW Labor Government and Transport for New South Wales have clearly been dragging their feet when it comes to implementing potentially life-saving upgrades to our road and rail networks; it seems their priorities lie elsewhere.
“Not only are they behind schedule on this project, but calls for upgrades to the level crossing just up the line on Canola Way, have fallen on deaf ears.
“Less than 12 months ago, the Canola Way crossing was the site of a major collision between a truck and a train; the crossing is located on a sharp ‘s’ bend, and presents considerable safety risks.
“While more warning signs have been erected, clearly more needs to be done to improve safety at the Canola Way level crossing.
“Whether it’s local residents on the school or grocery run, heavy freight operators transporting goods in and out of the area, our farmers moving stock, or those on board the trains, we need a greater focus and more investment on keeping people safe at level crossings; alarmingly though it appears the NSW Labor Government has no clue, no idea, and is nowhere to be seen on this.
“I’m calling on the Regional Transport Minister to visit the region and see for herself the issues that continue to plague these crossings, and to make the safety of our communities a top priority for 2024, and immediately start work on upgrading these level crossings,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 26 Jan 2024 | All LGAs Community News Temora Shire
Australia Day is all about the importance of belonging to a community, and making a meaningful contribution to the lives of others, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.
Ms Cooke travelled widely across the electorate to mark the occasion, and was on-hand for an Australia Day breakfast in Ariah Park, before meeting up with locals in Matong for the opening of the new hall. Ms Cooke rounded-out the day in Weethalle, celebrating with locals who had gathered for the opening of upgrades to the Country Club.
“Our communities are the absolute heart and soul of our towns and villages; it fills me with such pride to see people gathered together to share in the spirit of the day which to me, represents the strength of communities in uniting us and providing support when it’s need,” Ms Cooke said.
“From our Men’s Sheds, to our CWA groups, Meals on Wheels, youth groups, hospital auxiliaries, our Lions Clubs, the list goes on and on – they all have one thing in common: they provide a platform for people to connect, share stories, and appreciate the comradery of our communities,” she said.
Ms Cooke congratulated the recipients of Australia Day Awards across the electorate, including Eris Gleeson from Young, John Harper from Stockinbingal, Mary Sutcliffe from Narrandera, and Warwick Heckendorf also from Narrandera who all received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
“We need to nurture our sense of community, and it’s the hard work and dedication of people like those recognised with awards today, that help strengthen the bonds among residents, and play a vital role in fostering a sense of belonging,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke also acknowledged the ongoing conversations around Australia Day.
“It is right that we celebrate our achievements and progress, but it’s also important to recognise the perspectives of all Australians, and have open conversations that contribute to building a stronger nation; one that we are all very lucky to call home,” Ms Cooke said.
The Weethalle Country Club now has a new kitchen and ladies’ amenities thanks to a $240,300 investment by the previous NSW Coalition Government under the successful Stronger Country Communities Fund. The Matong Hall was made possible thanks to an investment by the previous Federal Coalition Government.
Image: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke lent a hand on the barbecue and in the kitchen at the Australia Day breakfast held in Ariah Park.
Steph Cooke | 24 Jan 2024 | All LGAs Community News
Following a recent visit to the Men’s Shed in Harden, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is encouraging men of all ages across the electorate to consider joining their local shed, highlighting the many advantages joining-up can have for both young and old.
Ms Cooke said there are now more Men’s Sheds in operation across Australia than there are McDonalds, with a number of successful sheds operating across the electorate.
“The Men‘s Sheds in our local communities have a long and proud tradition of providing a place where members can get together, and not only share their skills and craftsmanship, but can also build friendships and enduring connections that provide benefits in so many ways,” Ms Cooke said.
“I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve visited the various Men’s Sheds across our Cootamundra electorate, but the one thing you can’t forget is the warm welcome you get every time you walk through the door.
“There’s often a misconception out there that the Men’s Shed is just for those who have perhaps retired from the workforce, or are more senior members of the community, when in fact men of all ages can benefit from what the groups have to offer.
“Whether it’s learning a new skill or just chatting about shared interests, members both young and old can forge new friendships and develop a comrade with others that they may otherwise be missing out on.
“So as 2024 gets underway, I’m encouraging men of all ages across the electorate, to consider dropping by your local Men’s Shed to learn a bit more about what they have to offer; I guarantee you’ll get a cuppa and a great yarn,” she said.
To find a shed that’s operating in your area, visit: www.mensshed.org or phone the electorate office on (02) 6382 2399.
Photograph caption: Steph Cooke dropped by the Men’s Shed in Harden recently to talk to members about their latest projects.
