Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was in Temora to officially open the upgrades to the Bundawarrah Centre, including a new walkway for a revitalised entrance to the Temora Rural Museum.
Ms Cooke said recent upgrades have been made possible thanks to federal and state government funding, including $187,200 under the previous Coalition Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund.
“I have seen many changes to the Temora Rural Museum over the years, all of which have encouraged more and more visitors to the area, boosting the local economy,” Ms Cooke said.
“Thousands of people visit the museum each year to see the amazing collection, so the upgrades to the Bundawarrah Centre will certainly enhance the experience and ensure it continues to be a major attraction in the town, both for residents and tourists alike,” she said.
During the opening, Ms Cooke also had the honour of presenting a plaque to Superintendent Steve Holden (retired), in recognition of his tireless work in showcasing the vital history around the evolution of bush firefighting in the area over many decades.
Superintendent Holden was the District Manager for the NSW Rural Fire Service (Bland Temora Zone) from 2001 to 2021.
“Not only was Steve a member of the RFS but he’s also a volunteer of the Thanowring Rural Fire Brigade which he remains a member of today,” Ms Cooke said.
“Steve has always been committed to serving the community across a number of organisations, including as a volunteer member of the Temora Rural Museum. He was instrumental in the creation of the NSW Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre, which forms one of the many historic displays within the museum,” she said.
Ms Cooke said the Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre incorporates appliances, equipment, and many ancillary items associated with the vast history of the RFS.
“This display is a credit to Steve’s efforts, and that of the volunteers that help maintain this vital link to our fire-fighting history, including the men and women who have contributed throughout the years,” Ms Cooke said.
Photograph caption: Steph Cooke MP presenting Steve Holden with a plaque in recognition of his work establishing the NSW Rural Fire Service Community Engagement Centre.
