Community Representatives Join De-amalgamation Steering Committee

Published on 09 July 2026

de-amalgamation - Steering Committee

Snowy Valleys Council has appointed six community representatives to its De-amalgamation Steering Committee, ensuring local voices continue to play a key role in shaping the future of the region.

Following an Expression of Interest process, Council received nine applications and endorsed the appointment of three representatives from the northern area and three from the southern area.

The appointed community representatives are:

Northern Area

  • Allan Tonkin (Tumut)
  • Barnett (Barney) Hyams (Batlow)
  • John Connors (Batlow)

Southern Area

  • Mary Hoodless AM (Jingellic)
  • Ian Chaffey (Tumbarumba)
  • Andrew Rae (Tumbarumba)

Mayor Julia Ham said the de-amalgamation process belongs to the community, so it's important that local people have a seat at the table.

"These representatives bring a wealth of local knowledge, professional experience and a genuine commitment to achieving the best possible outcome for our future councils. Their input will help ensure the process is transparent, well-informed and reflects the interests of our communities," Mayor Ham said.

"We received a high calibre of nominations, and I'd like to congratulate the successful applicants and sincerely thank everyone who took the time to apply."

Council's Chief Transition Officer, Nicole Jenkins, said the Steering Committee would provide strategic leadership, oversight and governance throughout the separation and re-establishment of the two new independent councils.

"The community representatives will work alongside the elected Council to help ensure the separation process is transparent, financially responsible and carried out in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 and the outcome of the 2025 de-amalgamation referendum," Ms Jenkins said.

The Expression of Interest process opened on 28 May 2026 and closed on 18 June 2026, with the opportunity promoted through local media and Council's website, newsletters and social media channels.

The inaugural meeting of the De-amalgamation Steering Committee is expected to be held in early August, at which members will begin providing strategic oversight of the work required to advance the establishment of two independent councils.

Community members are still invited to have their say

While the Steering Committee appointments have now been finalised, Council is continuing to seek broader community input through the De-amalgamation Community Panel.

Expressions of Interest remain open for residents interested in joining the 20-member Community Panel, which will provide community feedback, local knowledge and diverse perspectives to help inform Council’s decision-making throughout the transition period.

Council is seeking representatives from across the Snowy Valleys community, and applications are welcome from people of different ages, backgrounds, interests and experiences.

Community members interested in being involved are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest via Council’s website. Applications close on Sunday, 19 July 2026.

-ENDS-

 

 

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