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 | 09 Apr 2024 | Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Emergency Services Local projects News
Work has commenced on upgrades to the heritage-listed Cootamundra Fire Station to modernise the building and ensure it is fit for purpose, while preserving its historical value, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.
Ms Cooke said the project represented a balance between conserving the town’s heritage while safeguarding the functionality of an essential piece of community infrastructure.
“The fire station was built in 1913 and has served the local community well for more than one hundred years,” Ms Cooke said.
“It’s a beautiful building and is a wonderful reminder of days gone by, and while it is important to preserve our history, it’s equally important that the fire station meets modern standards, and the renovations that are now underway will ensure it is a state-of-the-art facility, with the capabilities to deal with the challenges of today,” she said.
Ms Cooke said the work is due for completion in December this year, emphasising that the station will remain operational throughout the build.
“The $2.5 million upgrades will include a new engine bay for the truck to park in, enabling trucks to drive through the station, eliminating the need to reverse in off the road. There will be a new office, along with new change rooms and amenities, which will ensure brigade members have the facilities they need as they carry out their vital work,” Ms Cooke said.
“Careful attention will be paid to preserving the station’s heritage features, such as its distinctive facade and other architectural elements.
“The work our first-responders do should never be taken for granted, and I am committed to ensuring our frontline emergency services personnel have the very best facilities to enable them to keep communities safer and stronger when future hazards emerge.
“I’m pleased that Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib recognises this, and I look forward to continuing to work with him to secure vital investments in our regionally-based emergency services,” she said.
Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke at the Cootamundra Fire Station with members of the local brigade.
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 | 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 | 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 | 20 Dec 2023 | Community Emergency Services Hilltops Council News
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.
Steph Cooke | 22 Nov 2023 | Community Emergency Services News Temora Shire
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was in Temora recently to help welcome three new firefighter recruits to the Temora Fire Station.
Elliot Mendick, Derek Hingerty, and Lachlan Girling-Butler joined the ranks of Fire and Rescue NSW after graduating from their training.
“I visited just a few months ago when Elliot, Derek, and Lachlan were going through the recruitment process, so it’s wonderful to be here today to congratulate them on their efforts, and help officially welcome them to the team,” Ms Cooke said.
“On behalf of the entire community I would like to formally express our appreciation to them for stepping up and joining this incredible team, following in the footsteps of the many firefighters who have served our community.
“Temora captain Mark Cooper is a top bloke, who leads with determination, compassion, commitment, integrity, and humour; it’s no surprise that the brigade will reach full strength in a short while,” she said.
During the official proceedings, firefighter Josh Hale was also presented with his 10-year long-service and good conduct medal.
“We know the significant contribution Josh has made to the local brigade, the Temora community, and indeed the rest of the state whilst on deployment, and we indeed thank him for his years of service,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke said the event was a good reminder to everyone in the community that now is the time to get ready for bush fire season.
“It’s so important for residents across our communities to prepare their homes and ensure their bush fire survival plan is up to date,” Ms Cooke said.
“Grass fires move three times faster than bush fires, so my message to everyone this year is simply: don’t be complacent, have a plan in place and make sure you’ve talked with loved ones about what to do if a fire threatens your home,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 29 Sep 2023 | All LGAs Community Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined officers from the Young Police Station this morning, for a service marking National Police Remembrance Day.
“There are 27 police stations across our Cootamundra electorate, all staffed by men and women who have dedicated themselves to keeping our communities safe,” Ms Cooke said.
“Policing is not an easy task – particularly in rural and regional areas – and every day the officers of our four Police Districts – Riverina Police District, Hume Police District, Murrumbidgee Police District, and Chifley Police District – go above and beyond, to protect us all.
“Most of us will never truly know what it is like, to go to work each day, not knowing what you’ll be confronted with; never knowing if a routine call-out might escalate into something more serious.
“So National Police Remembrance Day is a chance for us all to pause and reflect on this work, and to say thank you to members of the NSW Police Force for their service and their bravery; where would we be without them.”
During the service, Ms Cooke placed a wreath in honour of police officers who have lost their lives through illness or other circumstances.
“During today’s service, we paused to remember those serving members of the NSW Police Force who have passed away in the previous 12 months; 14 names were read out, and we certainly honour their memories, and offer our thoughts and prayers to their families,” Ms Cooke said.
“So the next time you see a police officer out and about in the community, if you get the chance, take a moment to say ‘hello’, and thank them for the work they do day-in and day-out, to protect our way of life,” she said.
Steph Cooke | 25 Aug 2023 | All LGAs Community Emergency Services News
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke was on hand to personally thank local members of the NSW RFS for their years of continued service, during recent events honouring their long-standing contribution to the local community.
Ceremonies were held in Tubbul, Milvale, and Harden on Saturday (19 August 2023), to present medals in recognition of the commitment and dedication of 40 RFS members across the Cootamundra electorate.
“We all owe such a debt of gratitude to our dedicated NSW RFS firefighters for their continued service in the face of bushfires, floods, and other emergencies; where would we be without them,” Ms Cooke said.
“The years of service these individuals represent is just extraordinary; in Tubbul, medals were presented to eight members of the local RFS brigade, who combined, have clocked up 472 years of combined service, which is an amazing achievement.
“While in Milvale, a further eight members were presented with Long Service Medals that together represented 262 years of combined service, and in Cunningar a ceremony was held to present members from across the South West Slopes RFS Zone, with Long Service, and National Medals.
“Nine members were also presented with the National Emergency Medal following their service during the 2019/2020 bushfire season, while the Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal was also presented to a local RFS member who helped fight fires in Canada.
“It was an honour to pay tribute to these brigades, and present medals to this group of dedicated individuals, who have done us all very proud with their years of loyalty.
“On behalf of the entire Cootamundra electorate, I congratulate them, and extend our sincere thanks,” she said.
TUBBUL RFS BRIGADE
Long Service Medals:
David (Spud) Gibson – 53 Years
Geoff DeBritt – 53 Years
The late Graeme Butt – 53 Years
James Davidson – 53 Years
Kevin Coddington – 65 Years
Peter Coddington – 65 Years
Robert Coddington – 65 Years
Lionel Clark – 65 Years
MILVALE RFS BRIGADE
Long Service Medals:
Adam Fisher – 14 years
Chris Schiller – 20 years
Geoff Schiller – 20 years
Scott Schiller – 20 years
Steve Boland – 29 years
Michael Schiller – 53 years
Paul Booker – 53 years
John Booker – 53 years
SOUTH WEST SLOPES RFS ZONE
Long Service &/or National Medals:
Dennis Hancock (both medals)
Irene Hancock (both medals)
Peter Bulliman
Phillip Baer
Ken Chudleigh
Geoffrey Crocker
Brian Morgan
Bryan Gawthrop
David Pascoe
John Ashcroft
Kenneth You
Wesley Lesberg
Kevin Sharp
Shane Collier
Humanitarian Overseas Service Medal, British Columbia:
