Heart of the Monaro (Part 1/2)
A Tribute to the Resilient Communities and Kind Souls Who Keep Our Region Thriving - by Chris Chan
To our dear supporters across the region of the Snowy Monaro,
As we reflect on the tireless spirit of this beautiful and resilient community, we are overcome with gratitude for each of you who make this region the warm, welcoming, and determined place it is. This message is for you—the backbone of the Snowy Monaro, the ones who make everything we do worthwhile.
To our cherished friends near Lake Jindabyne and especially near the bowling club, your unwavering support keeps the spirit of Jindabyne alive. To those who labor in the dust and sun, in places like the Leesville Industrial Estate and Polo Flat Road, your hard work is the quiet foundation upon which this community thrives. Your dedication keeps our local industries and services moving, and we thank you from the depths of our hearts.
A heartfelt shout-out to the familiar faces and steadfast workers at Woolworths in Nuggets Crossing, who greet us with smiles and assist us in countless ways. You are more than employees—you are neighbors and friends, and your kindness leaves an imprint on every visit. We see you, we value you, and we’re grateful to have you as part of our community.
To the awesome and humble doctor in Berridale and his lovely family, thank you for your service and dedication. Your presence brings reassurance and care to so many. You exemplify what it means to serve with compassion, and we’re fortunate to have such a kind soul looking after us.
And to the best budget store along the main street in Cooma, you are a gem that keeps our lives running smoothly, often on a shoestring. Your doors are always open, and you offer much more than bargains; you offer a reminder that Cooma’s heart beats strong and vibrant.
To the friends and family in Cooma - and to the young family who guided a humble traveler on his unintended detour through Cathcart on his way to see Bob of Bombala, thank you for your warmth and readiness to lend a hand. Your kindness embodies what this region stands for, a place where neighbors are family and visitors are welcomed with open arms.
To our friends in Nimmitabel and the farms around - thank you for your commitment to this region and its people. Thank you for your tireless hospitality and your concern for the marginalised and downtrodden. Those who enter your home never leave hungry in body or soul.
To the wonderful people of Bombala and surrounds, who care for and love one of the prettiest and friendliest towns in NSW. You are hard working and down to earth and you speak a lot of common sense which is a rare commodity these days! And you are home to the longest standing councillor who has tirelessly served the community for 30 years and given his best in the face of many obstacles including forced amalgamation. His stand for transparency and accountability in council has not been unnoticed!
And how can we ever begin to thank our friends who live in the beauty of the rolling hillsides of Adaminaby, your heart to serve the community not only locally but across the region of the Snowy Monaro, is incomparable in steadfastness and generosity. You are friends who will always happily go the second mile, and further, without question and without complaint.
To our friends in Michelago, Bredbo and Numeralla and the hillsides around, though your townships are small, your hearts are great, and you give of your time and experience tirelessly and generously to encourage and support us along the way. This journey would be so much harder without you.
A special thanks to Petra, our local hero, and her diligent band of eco-enthusiasts who work tirelessly to keep our region clean. With little recognition and even less compensation, you go out day after day to pick up rubbish, fueled by nothing but pure love for this land. You are an inspiration and a reminder that true heroism lies in the quiet acts of kindness that too often go unseen.
And to all along Snowy River Way, and the myriad of communities like you across the region, who are always ready to pitch in for one another, be it for fencing, firefighting, flood assistance, or rounding up escaped animals—your generosity and community spirit are unmatched. It’s you who make this region resilient, turning challenges into triumphs time and time again.
From each and every one of us who bring you the news, despite the hurdles and the naysayers, thank you. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it because we believe deeply in the power of truth and transparency. We love this region, and we are committed to serving it, standing beside you as you work and live here.
We are here to shine a light on the truth, to restore good management, and to bring hope to the cold and windy land of the Monaro. This community is built on the acts of kindness, big and small, that happen every day between neighbors, friends, and strangers alike. We carry forward the spirit of the pioneers who braved the elements and the mighty Snowy River, who built the great projects that power our state. They faced hardship with grit, and in their footsteps, we strive to carry that legacy forward.
So, may the Monaro continue to prosper, and may we hold those entrusted with public funds accountable and transparent. This region is in your hands, and it is stronger because of your integrity, strength, and spirit. Thank you for all that you do, and for giving us the privilege of bringing your stories to light. Long live the Monaro, and may its people forever thrive.
"The Lord bless you and keep you;
The Lord make His face shine upon you,
And be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you,
And give you peace."
With sincere thanks and deep gratitude,
Chris Chan and everyone at the Monaro Zone!
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