The former Cootamundra and Gundagai shire names could return to council signs as plans to split the regional council progress. Cootamundra-Gundagai councillors have agreed how to divide cash reserves and recommended leaders for the two councils. Snowy Valleys Council is seeking state funding for an estimated $4.99 million separation cost. Its mayor met the local government minister to discuss a request for almost $2.9 million. Residents have until 1 November to complete a survey on financial options for the two proposed councils.
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is asking residents and community groups to nominate people, groups and events for the 2027 Australia Day Awards. Nominations close at 4.00pm on Friday, 4 December 2026. This year the council has added a Community Group/Event of the Year award, which recognises groups or events that have made a meaningful contribution to community life during 2026. Previously unsuccessful nominees may be nominated again. Nomination forms are available from council offices in Cootamundra and Gundagai, and can be submitted online, emailed or returned to council offices.
Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is working to finish its transition plan before a December deadline for submission to the Office of Local Government. Once submitted, the office will prepare a proclamation establishing the two new councils. Council has decided that both new councils will keep the names and logos of the pre-merger councils and have no wards. Cootamundra Shire Council will have seven councillors and Gundagai Shire Council five. Both will be administered until elections scheduled for September 2028.
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LeisureSafe Australia has been appointed to manage the Cootamundra and Gundagai swimming pools ahead of the summer season, which opens in late October. Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council says existing aqua programs will continue, and a Learn to Swim program will be introduced at the pool for the first time. Details on enrolments, lesson times, fees and start dates will be announced later. LeisureSafe Australia will take over management of the Cootamundra Swimming Pool and Sports Stadium from 1 November 2026. Mayor Abb McAlister said the council is committed to keeping aquatic facilities and programs accessible to the community.
Michael Robotham's 20th novel, Tell Me Something True, is a rewritten version of a manuscript he wrote in the 1980s. The story, set in a small NSW town, was initially rejected by publishers. Robotham, now a bestselling author, has updated the novel to reflect contemporary sensibilities. The book explores themes of brotherhood, family, and small-town secrets, drawing from Robotham's own childhood experiences in Gundagai. He will discuss the novel at the State Library of NSW on October 10.
