Celebrating our Local Women

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:

www.nsw.gov.au/women-nsw/awards-and-events/womens-week

Government Avoids Scrutiny By Cutting Sitting Days

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.

Cootamundra Summit Drives 2024 Advocacy Agenda

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.

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.

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.

Putting Our Hand up for Regional Investment

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is encouraging community groups to secure the region’s fair share of state government investment, and apply for funding under the latest round of the Clubgrants Category 3 Infrastructure Grants Program.

“We want to make sure that we continue to see the same level of investment in our regional towns and villages, as we saw under the previous Coalition Government, so it’s important we put our hand up and let the NSW Labor Government know about the projects in need of support west of the Great Divide,” Ms Cooke said.

“The Clubgrants Category 3 Program, reinvests profits from gaming machines into community projects, and is crucial in supporting initiatives that contribute to the development and improvement of our communities.

“Infrastructure grants of between $50,000 up to $300,000 are available to not-for-profit community organisations and local councils, and are delivered across four categories: arts and culture, community infrastructure, sport and recreation, and disaster readiness.

“The funding can be used for halls, sports centres, playgrounds and swimming pools, capital equipment, evacuation centres, museums, art galleries, and cultural centres.

“These groups are the lifeblood of many communities, and I want these organisations to not just keep their doors open, but to grow and prosper.

“This kind of funding helps empower local organisations to undertake projects that matter most to our community members.

“Applications close on Monday the 18th of December 2023, so I certainly encourage groups that are thinking about applying, to start putting their application together as soon as possible.

“Any groups seeking assistance with their application are invited to contact my office for support,” she said.

For more information or to apply, visit:

www.nsw.gov.au/grants-and-funding/clubgrants-category-3-fund

Revamped Bowling Green Officially Unveiled

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was in Ganmain recently to officially open the new synthetic greens at the Sports Club.

Funded in part by a $350,000 grant under the previous Coalition Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund, Ms Cooke said the new greens have transformed the popular local club, with the event marking a significant milestone for the entire Ganmain community.

“Today’s opening signifies the club’s commitment to promoting an active and vibrant community by providing facilities that both members and visitors to the area can enjoy,” Ms Cooke said.

“These sorts of projects are about more than just infrastructure; it’s about investing in our communities and creating spaces for people to come together, enjoy sports, and build bonds.

“These upgrades will have a lasting impact on Ganmain, and I’m truly thrilled to be part of today’s opening,” she said.

In addition to the new synthetic bowling greens, Ms Cooke said the sports ground has also benefited from $49,585 in funding from the Crown Reserves Improvement Fund, allocated under the previous Coalition Government.

“This investment has enabled critical improvements to the fencing and lighting, ensuring that the grounds remain a safe and welcoming space for members and guests,” Ms Cooke said.

“The revitalisation of the bowling green has breathed new life into the club’s facilities, and together with the new lighting and fencing, is a testament to the commitment and hard work of all those involved in the refurbishment project; a true celebration of what can be achieved when we come together to work towards a common goal as a community,” she said.

Local Heroes Honoured at Matong War Memorial

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke paid tribute to the brave service men and women from the Matong community during a wreath laying ceremony to re-dedicate the war memorial in the village.

The Matong Memorial Gates were re-dedicated after being moved from the front of the Matong Mechanics Institute Hall – where they have stood for over 80 years – to the central park in the village.

Speaking during the ceremony, Ms Cooke said the gates are a symbol of respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by local heroes.

“The Matong Memorial Gates stand as a testament to the strength and unity of the Matong community; they represent the unwavering spirit of an area that stands together in times of need,” Ms Cooke said.

Ms Cooke emphasised the significance of preserving the memory of those who have selflessly served and defended our nation.

“Events like this are such a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our war-heroes and the importance of never forgetting their service,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s our duty to remember and honour those who have given so much for our freedom and safety, and the Matong Memorial Gates are a symbol of our commitment to preserving their memory.

“The gates serve as a place of reflection and remembrance; they stand as a monument of the Matong community’s determination to never forget the sacrifices made by its sons and daughters,” she said.

Ms Cooke congratulated members of the Advance Matong Committee, along with Coolamon Shire Council, for their work ensuring the memorial continues to provide an appropriate tribute that reflects the history of the district.

Coolamon Open for Business

Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke was on hand in Coolamon today to help officially open the new Business Park in the town.

“The Business Park has been built to help turbo-charge opportunities for business and employment in Coolamon, which is obviously great news for the town and its surrounding areas,” Ms Cooke said.

“Already, we’ve seen great outcomes for local businesses, with 50 regionally based contractors involved in the construction process.

“And given the high level of interest already from businesses in the park, the project looks set to deliver on its intended purpose,” she said.

The project received a boost of $1.97 million under the Drought Stimulus Package introduced by the previous Coalition Government in the wake of the most recent and devastating drought.

“That package was designed to off-set the flow-on effects that drought can have on regional businesses and communities,” Ms Cooke said.

“And as we once again face the prospect of yet another dry time, these kinds of mitigation measures that protect against the ripple effects dry spells can have, will really come to the fore.

“When it comes to our regional communities in general, and particularly in relation to drought, it’s all about keeping businesses open and jobs in town.

“Strong employment obviously then feeds into other areas like schools, housing, medical services, emergency services, and the like, so projects like the Coolamon Business Park ensure our local communities can thrive well into the future,” she said.

Teamwork Make the Dream Work

Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke joined with proud local residents in Ganmain on Sunday, to officially open the revamped Ganmain multi-purpose sports facility.

“I had so much fun in Ganmain cheering from the sidelines as the Ganmain Grong Grong Matong (GGGM) Football Netball Club sides, played host to arch-rivals the Coolamon Rovers Football Netball Club,” Ms Cooke said.

“Cutting the ribbon to officially open the renovated netball and tennis courts at the Ganmain Sports Ground was a very special moment for me, and I was honoured to be asked along, to help launch what is sure to be the start of an exciting new era for sport in the area.

“Many volunteer hours went in to making the project a reality, and I congratulate everyone involved in helping create what is now a wonderful asset for current and future generations to enjoy,” she said.

Various groups provided funding for the project including Advance Ganmain, the Ganmain Show Society, GGGM Senior & Junior Football Netball Clubs, Ganmain Tennis Club, Coolamon Shire Council, and GrainCorp.

“It was a huge team effort, and you know what they say: teamwork makes the dream work,” Ms Cooke said.

“I’m proud to say the previous Liberal/Nationals State Government also played a part, contributing $193,883 towards the upgrade, under round four of the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

“Every day we’re reminded of the success of this program, and how it has made a really meaningful difference to the lives of people living in communities all across our Cootamundra electorate,” she said.