Posts Tagged ‘Jindabyne’
Behind the Scenes at Gaden Trout Hatchery’s New Facilities
For many visitors, a trip to Gaden Trout Hatchery means feeding fish, wandering around the ponds and learning a little more about the trout that have become part of the Snowy Mountains story.
What most people never see is the extraordinary operation taking place behind the scenes.
Beyond the visitor areas, hundreds of thousands of trout and salmon eggs are developing in carefully controlled conditions. Water temperatures are monitored, incubation trays are checked daily and fish are nurtured through the earliest and most vulnerable stages of life before eventually making their way into waterways across the region.
The scale is remarkable.
At the time of our visit, between 160,000 and 200,000 trout and salmon eggs were developing throughout the hatchery. Some incubation containers can hold up to 70,000 eggs, with fish at different stages of development carefully managed across multiple incubation systems.
Every one of those eggs represents a delicate balancing act.
Water temperature influences how quickly eggs develop. A warmer season can accelerate growth, while colder conditions slow the process. Flowing water is used to replicate the conditions fish would experience naturally in a river system, encouraging healthy development from the earliest stages.
The eggs rest within specialised trays where water constantly circulates beneath them. To the developing fish, it feels much like being nestled amongst gravel in a flowing stream.
Depending on water temperature, the incubation process can take five to six weeks before hatching begins.
The hatchery’s biological filtration systems also play a critical role. Beneficial bacteria convert harmful ammonia produced by fish waste into safer compounds, helping maintain healthy water quality throughout the facility. Behind the scenes, an intricate network of pumps, filters and water management systems works around the clock to create stable conditions for fish development.
Visitors may only see ponds and tanks, but behind every fish is an enormous amount of science, monitoring and care.
Once hatched, the young fish continue through a carefully managed growing process. They are graded, monitored and transferred through different stages of development before eventually reaching larger ponds.
The hatchery faces many of the same challenges found in the natural environment. Water temperatures, seasonal conditions and predators such as shags and cormorants can all influence survival rates and fish growth.
For Hatchery Manager Paul Sheather, however, the hatchery serves a purpose that extends well beyond fish production.
Having grown up around hatcheries himself, he understands the lasting impression these places can leave on young visitors.
“The memories are what matter,” he says. “If we can get kids interested in fish, fishing and the environment, that can stay with them for life.”
That philosophy is helping shape a growing focus on education and community engagement.
Plans are underway for children’s fishing workshops, giving young people an opportunity to learn about fish, waterways and the life cycle of trout through hands-on experiences. The popular Gaden Hatchery Open Day is also set to return on the October Long Weekend, providing a rare opportunity for visitors to explore areas of the facility not normally open to the public.
The hatchery’s importance reaches far beyond its fences.
Each year, fish raised at Gaden contribute to recreational fishing opportunities throughout the Snowy Mountains and surrounding regions. They support a fishing culture that attracts visitors from across Australia and underpins events such as the Snowy Trout Challenge.
Running annually from October through to April, the challenge draws anglers from around the country, many returning year after year to fish the lakes and rivers of the Snowy Mountains.
The hatchery forms an important link between healthy fisheries, tourism, education and the region’s outdoor lifestyle.
For visitors, it offers a glimpse into a world that is rarely seen. For anglers, it helps sustain one of Australia’s most iconic freshwater fishing destinations. For local families, it provides an opportunity to connect with nature and learn more about the waterways that shape life in the Snowy Mountains.
The next time you visit Gaden Trout Hatchery, take a moment to look beyond the ponds.
Behind every fish is a story of patience, science, dedication and care ~ and a team working quietly to support the future of recreational fishing in the Snowy Mountains.
Thanks so much! The Kesha Nevé Team
We did it! Kesha Nevé has officially been crowned the winner of Australian Idol 2026!
It has been such a wild ride. What started as a ground swell of support in her hometown of Jindabyne, quickly became a national movement with people from every corner of Australia jumping on board to back her. Whether you’ve been with us since her first audition, or joined the climb during the finals, this win belongs to you. It’s a massive testament to what happens when a community, from the mountains to the coast and everywhere in between, pulls together.
A note from Kesha
Kesha is still pinching herself and is in absolute awe of the love she has received from across the country. Seeing so many people from all walks of life back her so strongly has been truly life changing.
“I’m honestly lost for words,” Kesha says. “I’m so full of gratitude for the way everyone pulled together to make this happen. I just can’t wait to get back out there, repay that faith, and sing for you all. This is just the start!”
Please see Kesha’s video thank you message at this YouTube link: https://youtube.com/shorts/ZX9c0yU0Qu4
What’s next?
The hard work starts now! Kesha is ready to head to the studio to write and record new music. We’re also mapping out plans to get her on the road soon so she can visit and thank you all in person.
Stay in the loop
To keep up with tour dates, new music, and some fun behind-the-scenes moments, make sure you’re following her journey:
- Instagram: @keshaneve.music
- Facebook: Kesha Nevé Music
Gigs and appearances
Kesha is so ready to get out there and perform! If you’re looking to book her for a gig, appearance, or anything in between, please get in touch with her wonderful manager, Karen-lee Goody. Karen-Lee is super helpful and would love to chat about making it happen.
Contact Manager
Karen-lee Goody, CEO of Entertainment Consulting Pty. Ltd.
Email: kl@entconsult.au
Web: https://entertainmentconsultingau.com/
Thank you for being part of this historic win and the start of Kesha’s career. Let’s keep this momentum going!
Thanks so much!
The Kesha Nevé Team
Kesha Nevé’s Australian Idol Journey Continues!
How to vote for Kesha – so it counts!
As the lights come up for movie week on Australian Idol, Jindabyne’s Kesha Nevé will step onto the stage with a simple goal: to make her small Snowy Mountains hometown proud.
The 21-year-old singer and competitive skier has now made it into the show’s Top 3, a milestone that has transformed a lifelong dream into a national moment.
Now the stakes are rising.
For Kesha, the journey to that stage began far from television cameras, in the small alpine town of Jindabyne, where music has always been part of her life.
Her father even gifted her a guitar at birth, setting the tone for a childhood where music and adventure existed side by side.
“My dad has definitely been the biggest influence musically for me,” she said. “I’ve grown up with many guitars in the house, there’s always been music playing or someone humming a tune.”
Growing up in the Snowy Mountains meant Kesha developed another passion as well: skiing.
A competitive skier, she spent much of her youth carving through alpine slopes while nurturing a parallel dream of performing musically.
For a time, the idea of pursuing skiing professionally crossed her mind.
But the pull of music proved stronger.
“Music has always been plan A, B and C,” she said. “I’ve loved skiing ever since I can remember and I’ll keep that hobby with me for life, but in the end, music is all I think about.”
Kesha’s first real taste of performing came at the local talent competition, Jindy Idol, when she was just eight years old.
Standing on stage in front of a cheering hometown crowd proved to be a defining moment.
“From as soon as I walked onto that stage and saw my community backing and supporting me, I knew music was all I wanted to do,” she said.
Since then, she has been a familiar face on stages across the region, busking as a child, playing gigs around the Snowy Mountains and regularly performing at the Man from Snowy River Hotel in Jindabyne, where her parents first met.
Kesha’s music, known for her distinctive husky voice and acoustic guitar performances, carries the imprint of the place she grew up, as the landscapes and lifestyle of the Snowy Mountains shape her songwriting.
“I’ll always stay true to where I’m from and the people I grew up with,” she said. “I’ve said since being on Idol that I’m doing this for Jindy, and I’ll stick to that until the end.
“I think it’s the most important thing, in all the chaos, to remember where you came from and the people who have been there from day one.”
Kesha’s love of country music and rural life also feeds into her stories.
“I love country music and farming in general,” she said. “That way of life will always have some impact on the songs I write and the way I live.”
The move from regional stages to national television has been, in her words, “life-changing”.
Being surrounded by experienced producers, musicians and fellow contestants has pushed Kesha to grow quickly as an artist.
“The Australian Idol experience has been nothing short of incredible,” she said “Every day I’m here, I feel more and more grateful for the opportunity. I’ve already learned so much about myself as an artist.”
Her performances throughout the competition have steadily built a following and caught the attention of the judging panel, Amy Shark, Marcia Hines and Kyle Sandilands, who have repeatedly praised Kesha’s distinctive husky tone.
The judges have also praised her natural stage presence and emotional connection to songs, while encouraging her to push her vocals further and take bigger risks as the competition intensifies.
Back home, the response from the Snowy Mountains community has been overwhelming.
Social media posts, messages and watch parties have turned each broadcast into a hometown event.
“My beautiful community has been so amazing,” Kesha said. “Seeing all the messages, posts and comments from everyone back home has been so motivational. It makes me want to keep progressing for everyone in Jindy.”
Kesha’s path on the show has included performances of songs by artists ranging from Keith Urban to Hozier, showcasing both her country roots and her ability to take on big contemporary hits.
Now, as the competition enters its live stage, the pressure, and opportunity, grow.
The eventual winner will receive $100,000 in prize money, a recording package with Hive Sound Studios, a songwriting camp with Sony Music Publishing, industry marketing support, and VIP invitations to the ARIA Awards and TV Week Logie Awards.
But for Kesha, the real dream lies beyond the show.
She hopes to release her own music and take it on the road, first across Australia, and eventually around the world.
“My dream career is definitely touring and sharing my music with as many people as possible,” she said. “I want to release my own music, EPs and albums and tell my stories through my songs.”
You can watch or stream Australian Idol now via the 7+ website.
Adapted from information first published on About Regional 16 March 2026 | By Edwina Mason
Thunderbolt Monday March 9 Alert – How rising oil prices will affect your mortgage and what we recommend you do about it today
For a decade or two, I worked in, and lived and breathed, financial markets. What I learnt was that history might look a bit different each cycle around, but the lessons essentially repeat themselves.
As a result, I spent some time this weekend getting out my trusty “History of Wall Street” book , as I wanted to remind myself what happened economically in the oil crises of the 1970s. I have attached a couple of paragraphs below if you are interested.
For example, over a period of 18 months in 1973, the oil price went up 4.5x. Imagine today the price of fuel going from $2 to around $9 a litre and this will give you the idea.
Now I am not saying thats going to happen, and this could all turn on a dime in a few weeks time and settle down, but I highlight this history to keep open minded to the possibility of a much larger move in these assets than you think probable today.
I will write a longer newsletter on this later in the week but for now:
If this oil crisis does not pass quickly, (personally and unfortunately I dont think it will, but I could be wrong), it is extremely likely we will get a spike in inflation, and we will get higher interest rates for a sustained period.
So what are you going to do about it?
1. Lock in a % of your mortgage now at a fixed rate.
Lets say variable home loans are around 5.64% now on average.
2 year fixed is around 5.84%, slightly higher. 3 years are also very similar. Some banks the rates are even the same.
I believe it prudent, even though it is slightly higher than your current variable rate, to lock in a percentage of your mortgage today at this fixed rate.
I also believe the current fixed rates are going to be going higher again soon as the banks generally take a bit of time (days and weeks) to catch up with higher fixed rates.
If we are wrong, and in the unlikely event interest rates do in fact go down, I dont believe over 2-3 years you will be too out of pocket, if any.
Its all about managing risk in the face of changing facts.
Isnt it amazing how the interest rate environment has changed in 4 months.
2. Buy some oil stocks
(I was a stockbroker and financial planner for many years, its hard to let go a lifetime of being a student of the markets).
Talk to me about this some more if you like and I will point you in the right direction. I might know a person or two in this space.
We also had a saying in financial markets “If you are going to panic, panic early”. We dont recommend you panic, but we do recommend you be a realist and manage your risk in the face of changing conditions.
As I heard on a podcast this week “A belief is a conviction that is open to revision based on evidence” (Highly recommend) : https://open.spotify.com/episode/73jrk6bu4ElnJP5OtKTuo0
Have a great week, try to get outside and dont watch too much of the news.
If you have received this newsletter and you dont have a mortgage with me, call me anyway, I will always try to help you regardless.
Look forward to your email at reggie@thunderboltlending.com.au or call me 0403397060
Jindabyne Chamber reflects on successful 2025, looks ahead to busy 2026
The Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce is heading into 2026 with strong momentum following a productive year that culminated in an Outstanding Chamber Award at the Southeast NSW Business Awards.
Chamber president Olivier Kapetanakos said 2025 was marked by community-focused events, strategic planning and ongoing advocacy for local businesses.
“Our focus has been on promoting local businesses and bringing the community together,” Mr Kapetanakos said.
Key highlights of the year included hosting the Snowball festival and Rocking on Lake in January, delivering the annual Business Awards, supporting the installation of the Big Chair Lift, which has quickly become a new drawcard for visitors and locals alike, and backing initiatives that strengthen Jindabyne’s sense of place and wellbeing.
Among these was The Reflection Project, a locally driven initiative aimed at creating spaces for pause, connection and reflection within the community. Mr Kapetanakos said the project reflected the chamber’s broader view of economic health, recognising that strong communities underpin strong local economies.
“The Reflection Project showed how business, community and wellbeing can intersect in meaningful ways,” he said.
Strategy day shapes future direction
The year concluded with a strategy day involving the chamber’s executive and members, based on members feedback and focused on clarifying priorities, setting a clear direction for the year ahead.
The strategy day was facilitated by Nicole Weber, who said the process helped articulate the chamber’s role within the community and align its leadership around shared goals.
“The strategy day gave the chamber the opportunity to step back, reflect on its impact, and clearly define what it exists to do,” Ms Weber said. “Having a shared purpose and belief framework creates alignment and confidence in decision-making.”
Following the session, the chamber formally articulated its purpose as supporting a year-round, thriving Jindabyne business community.
Mr Kapetanakos said the belief framework reflects how the chamber intends to operate and advocate on behalf of its members.
“We believe in building a vibrant, strong and supportive member network that helps people in business do better and fully enjoy the lifestyle our region offers,” he said.
The framework also emphasises the importance of strong, positive relationships that deliver tangible benefits for both members and the wider Jindabyne community, the chamber’s role as a collective voice for change, and the value of learning and innovating together through shared ideas, skills and support.
Funding challenges prompt rethink
A key challenge during 2025 was the chamber’s reliance on grant funding for major projects. The Australia Day Council’s decision not to fund Australia Day activities this year highlighted the uncertainty of that approach.
“One year Jindabyne gets funding, the next year it doesn’t,” Mr Kapetanakos said. “That unpredictability makes long-term planning difficult.”
In response, the chamber is shifting its focus toward a more sustainable, locally driven funding model that recognises the central role businesses play in a small town like Jindabyne.
Chamber treasurer Kerin Jarvis said local businesses are deeply embedded in the community and have the potential to collectively support initiatives that benefit both the local economy and social fabric.
“In a town like Jindabyne, businesses are at the heart of the community,” Ms Jarvis said. “Rather than relying on government grants that can be unpredictable, the chamber is looking to activate that connection and explore ways the business community can support local initiatives in a more sustainable and reliable way.”
As part of this shift, the chamber is exploring ways to support the creation of a community fund, either as a standalone initiative or in partnership with a broader community group, to provide a steadier funding base for local programs and events.
“We’re not going to rely on grant funding alone,” Mr Kapetanakos said.
Full calendar planned for 2026
Looking ahead, 2026 is shaping up as a busy year. The Snowball and Business Awards will return, with a new business showcase planned for the same month as the awards. The showcase will give local businesses the opportunity to promote their services directly to the community.
The chamber will also continue its regular networking program, with bi-monthly events consistently attracting 20 to 30 participants.
Membership growth has continued alongside this activity, underpinned by the chamber’s ongoing promotion and marketing of member businesses.
“Membership growth is being driven by the value we provide through business promotion and marketing that’s available to all chamber members,” chamber secretary Fiona Latham-Cannon said.
A new initiative planned for 2026 is the launch of a Quarterly Business Conditions Survey, designed to better understand local business needs and provide data to inform planning and advocacy.
“The survey will help us track trends, identify challenges and strengthen our advocacy with real data,” Mr Kapetanakos said.
Advocacy continues to be a cornerstone of the chamber’s work, particularly around workforce shortages in the Snowy Mountains.
During 2025, chamber representatives attended the Tourism Round Table held at Old Parliament House in Canberra, engaging directly with industry leaders and policymakers on issues affecting regional tourism economies.
The chamber is also pushing for visa reforms that would allow hospitality work in tourism-driven regions like the Snowy Mountains to count toward second- and third-year visa extensions.
“In regions where tourism is the primary economic driver, this could be transformative,” Mr Kapetanakos said.
The chamber has engaged with Regional Development Australia and federal authorities on the issue and has formally briefed RDA on the region’s workforce challenges.
“Advocacy takes time, but it remains critical to ensuring regional voices are heard,” he said.
Membership of the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce is open to all local businesses, with the committee encouraging members to actively contribute ideas, feedback and support. Vice president Gary Grant said the chamber is strongest when it reflects the diversity of the local business community and welcomes collaboration.
Local businesses interested in getting involved or learning more about the work of the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce can contact secretary@jindabynechamberofcommerce.org.au.
Meet the Candidates – Eden-Monaro Federal Election Forum
Hosted by the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce
We’re pleased to invite you to the only Federal Election candidate forum being held in the Snowy Monaro LGA ahead of the 2025 Federal Election.
Join us to hear directly from the candidates standing for Eden-Monaro as they share their visions, answer questions, and speak to the issues that matter most to our region.
📅 Date: Wednesday 23rd April
🕕 Time: 6:00pm start
📍 Location: Horizons, Lake Jindabyne
🎟 Free Event – All Welcome
🔗 Register here: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1388601
This is a unique opportunity to be informed and engaged in the only local candidate forum ahead of the election. We encourage everyone in the community to attend, bring their questions, and take part in this important civic discussion.
We look forward to welcoming you.
Jindabyne Rallies to Secure ‘The BIG Chairlift’ as a Permanent Landmark
The Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that, thanks to overwhelming community support, The BIG Chairlift sculpture by local artist Darragh Walsh will remain in Jindabyne permanently.
Over the Easter long weekend, a spirited community-led GoFundMe campaign raised an incredible $25,535 in just four days, surpassing the $25,000 purchase target set to secure the sculpture from the 2025 Lake Light Sculpture Festival.
More than 175 individuals, businesses, and organisations came together to contribute, reflecting the deep pride and affection the community holds for this striking piece of public art. Among the major supporters were Mayor Chris Hanna, who personally donated $5,000, and Shaun Turner from Doppelmayr Australia, whose $5,000 contribution early Sunday morning helped seal the deal and push the campaign over the line.
Created by Dalgety-based artist Darragh Walsh, The BIG Chairlift was inspired by the nostalgic silhouette of the old double Chairlifts now removed across Snowy Mountains resorts, a loving nod to Jindabyne’s alpine heritage and adventurous spirit.
Installed on the foreshore of Lake Jindabyne in the 2025 Light Light Sculpture Festival, the sculpture quickly became a fan favourite, drawing attention from locals, tourists, and social media audiences across the region. It became one of the most photographed pieces of the festival, with many willing it to be “a future landmark for the town”, and so the Jindabyne Chamber decided to do what they do best … spring into action and make it happen.
“Not only is the BIG Chairlift a magnificent sculpture, it’s a fitting symbol of our town’s identity, our shared memories, and our alpine spirit,” said Olivier Kapetanakos, President of the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce. “The response has been nothing short of phenomenal, and we’re so proud to help keep it here in Jindabyne for locals and visitors to enjoy for years to come.”
“As Australia’s Alpine Playground, Jindabyne is the ideal setting for public art that reflects adventure and our seasonal rhythm from winter snowsports to mountain biking in the green season, capturing the true spirit of a town shaped by life in the alpine outdoors.”
The Jindabyne Chamber is now working closely with local stakeholders, including the Snowy Monaro Regional Council and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, to determine a permanent location for the sculpture — ensuring that The Big Chairlift becomes a lasting visual symbol for Jindabyne and a welcoming marker for all who arrive.
Thank you to Lake Light Sculpture for generously halving the commission on this piece, which will be a most welcome contribution to the installation costs.
The energy around this project has also inspired conversations about the broader role of public art in the region. Any surplus funds raised from the GoFundMe campaign will be reinvested into future art installations around the Lake Jindabyne foreshore, installations that reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and community values. The Jindabyne Chamber sees this initiative as a starting point for a longer-term commitment to bringing meaningful, place-based art to public spaces across the town.
This project is a big win for the arts, it’s a celebration of Jindabyne’s character and capacity to unite behind a shared vision. Through grassroots generosity, artistic passion, and civic pride, The BIG Chairlift has a forever home in Jindabyne, and a legacy as big as the mountain spirit it represents.
What People Are Saying
The BIG Chairlift has drawn an outpouring of pride, gratitude, and community spirit from locals and visitors alike. Here’s what people are saying:
“How good is this? We now have the Big Chairlift! Put us on the map.” – Gary B.
“We’ll have to get a family photo of us, there should be enough room!” – Skye H.
“We will!” – Gary B.
— Gary B. & Skye H.
“Congratulations… Well done town folk… Great job, Darragh… Exactly what the town needed.”
— Edwina S.
“That’s sensational! So exciting for Jindabyne. Well done! Just the right piece for the foreshore. Love it.”
— Cansin D.F.
“It’s great news. Now Jindy will have a giant Chairlift as the symbol of town. Thank you Darragh. Every Aussie town needs a BIG something and Darragh Walsh has finally given us an opportunity to achieve this with your help, beautiful Jindabyne!”
— Trish & M. L.D.
“I would like to see it remain in Jindabyne. Our local Darragh Walsh has put many, many hours into making this. Perisher, Thredbo, Charlotte Pass, Selwyn, would also benefit greatly from purchasing the Big Chairlift.
Keep it local. Support Jindabyne locals.”
— Lynne Mc.
“You are amazing Jindabyne… Thank you Darragh for creating such a beautiful and relevant sculpture. Just another reason why the Lake Light Sculpture Festival is such an amazing event … thanks to all who put in the hard work to bring it back to life.”
— Linda R.
“Thank you to the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce for organising the fund raiser. So good to have The Big Chairlift now residing in Jindabyne forever.”
— Snowy Mountains Magazine
“It’s wonderful seeing so many people getting behind this. How great is the Lake Light Festival!”
— Nicole W.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Fiona Latham-Cannon
Secretary, Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce
M: 0408688627
E: secretary@jindabynechamberofcommerce.org.au
W: www.destinationjindabyne.com.au
Sentinel Chalet: Your Perfect Alpine Escape in Jindabyne
Nestled at the scenic top end of Jindabyne’s exclusive Highview Estate, Sentinel Chalet offers an idyllic blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty, making it the ideal destination for your next getaway.
Luxurious Living Spaces
Step inside Sentinel Chalet, where modern sophistication meets alpine charm. The property comfortably accommodates up to 14 guests, featuring five beautifully appointed bedrooms. With spacious living areas and plush furnishings, it’s perfect for large families, group retreats, or corporate gatherings.
Thoughtful Amenities
Every detail at Sentinel Chalet is meticulously designed to enhance your stay. Enjoy state-of-the-art Bosch kitchen appliances, a gas fireplace, central heating and cooling, and underfloor heating to keep you cozy year-round. The chalet also features a mud room with a specialised drying cabinet, ideal after a day spent skiing or mountain biking.
Unmatched Outdoor Experience
The outdoor alfresco area offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and the rolling countryside. Relax on the furnished deck or unwind around the fire pit in the covered lounge area. It’s an ideal setting for evening gatherings beneath the stars, where you might even be greeted by local kangaroos at dusk.
Adventure Awaits
Sentinel Chalet isn’t just a place to stay—it’s your gateway to adventure. Store your ski gear, snowboards, and mountain bikes securely on-site and explore the picturesque trails right from your backyard, leading down to the tranquil bubbling creek.
What Guests are Saying
Guests rave about the thoughtful inclusions, describing Sentinel Chalet as the best accommodation they’ve experienced in over 25 years of visiting the Snowy Mountains. The blend of luxury, practicality, and breathtaking scenery ensures every stay is memorable.
Book Your Stay
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply the beauty of nature, Sentinel Chalet promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Jindabyne.
Visit jindabynegetaway.com.au or contact them directly at info@jindabynegetaway.com.au to secure your alpine escape.
Boost Your Tourism Business with ATDW
The Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping local businesses maximise their reach and visibility. As part of this effort, we encourage all tourism operators to take advantage of the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) – the largest digital tourism platform in Australia.
Last week, we attended the ATDW Essentials for Operators Webinar (watch it here) with Rebecca Smith, gaining valuable insights into how local businesses can enhance their online presence and drive direct bookings. If you missed it, don’t worry! Here’s a quick recap of what was covered and how you can leverage ATDW to grow your business.
What is ATDW and Why Does It Matter?
ATDW is a digital platform that connects local tourism businesses with new customers by distributing their listings across a network of over 260 distribution partners, including:
- Visit NSW (visitnsw.com)
- Snowy Mountains Tourism (snowymountains.com.au)
- Eurobodalla Tourism (eurobodalla.com.au)
- Sapphire Coast Tourism (sapphirecoast.com.au)
- Queanbeyan-Palerang Tourism (queanbeyanpalerang.com.au)
- Australia.com and many more.
With over 55,000 businesses already listed, ATDW helps operators showcase their offerings to 80 million potential visitors annually. Whether you run an accommodation, tour, restaurant, or event, ATDW can significantly enhance your online exposure.
How to Get Listed on ATDW
- Check if Your Business is Already Listed:
- Search here: https://www.atdw.com.au/our-listings/
- Only LIVE listings appear, so contact Jenny (Industry Development Manager, Destination Southern NSW) for assistance with inactive listings. Jenny.Robb@dsnsw.com.au
- Register & Create Your Profile:
- Visit https://atdw.com.au/
- Select “Register Now” (top right corner)
- Follow the eligibility guidelines: https://page.atdw.com.au/operator_guidelines to ensure you meet the criteria.
- Businesses can be listed under multiple categories (e.g., Accommodation + Food & Drink + Events).
- Optimise Your Profile for Maximum Impact:
- Use high-quality images (minimum 1600×1200 pixels, no text overlays).
- Write a compelling description in third-person (no “I” or “we” statements).
- Keep your listing updated regularly to reflect current offerings, seasonal changes, or new deals.
- Include social media links to help potential visitors connect with you online.
Boost Your Visibility with Deals & Offers
Want to increase direct bookings? ATDW allows you to add special deals to your listing, such as discounts, packages, and vouchers.
Benefits of ATDW Deals:
✔️ Promote exclusive offers & encourage bookings
✔️ Link directly to your website (or a ‘Contact Us’ page if you don’t have online bookings)
✔️ Auto-removal of expired deals (ensuring your offers are always up-to-date)
💡 Tip: While the deal URL is optional, adding one can drive more bookings.
Link Your ATDW Listing to Google Business Profile
ATDW allows you to sync your listing with Google Business Profile, enhancing your online presence and improving search visibility.
Advantages of ATDW-Google Integration:
- Sync descriptions, opening hours, and contact details automatically.
- Gain access to enhanced analytics and insights.
- Improve SEO ranking, making your business more discoverable.
💡 Important: Google only displays the first 750 characters of your ATDW description, so ensure your most important details are in the first few sentences.
Maximise Your ATDW Profile with One-on-One Support
If you’re unsure how to optimise your ATDW listing, book a FREE 30-minute ATDW Profile Optimisation Session.
📅 Book here: https://page.atdw.com.au/meetingoptimisation.
For support and technical assistance, contact ATDW Support: 📞 1300 137 225 (Select NSW)
📧 support@atdw.com.au
Next Steps for Your Business
✅ Review your ATDW profile and ensure descriptions, photos, and deals meet ATDW guidelines.
✅ Explore linking your Google Business Profile to sync essential business information.
✅ Stay updated with Destination NSW’s Get Connected Program to further amplify your reach.
✅ Bookmark our Events Page for future ATDW webinars and tourism business training.
If you have any feedback or suggestions for future sessions, ATDW would love to hear from you! Reach out to info@dsnsw.com.au and help shape upcoming tourism workshops.
Let’s work together to put Jindabyne & the Snowy Mountains on the map!
Stay connected with the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce for more business resources and opportunities.
https://www.facebook.com/jindabynechamberofcommerce
Reviving Connection ~ Lake Jindabyne Reflections Project Set to Bring Heart and History Back to the Foreshore
After years of disconnection from its beloved lakefront, the town of Jindabyne is preparing to rediscover its voice, its heritage, and its sense of place through a powerful new initiative. Lake Jindabyne Reflections ~ Stories of Snowy & the Mountains is a community-led storytelling project that will share the rich and often unheard stories of the region, bringing to life the cultural, social, and emotional legacy of Jindabyne and its people.
The project will feature locally recorded stories from Monero–Ngarigo Elders, Snowy Hydro workers, ski pioneers, Old Town Jindabyne residents, and veterans, made accessible through QR-linked signage installed along the redeveloped foreshore trail.
For Olivier Kapetanakos, President of the Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce, the project represents far more than just a creative endeavour.
“We lost access to our lake foreshore, an economic and emotional centre for this town, when the area was closed for construction and safety works,” Kapetanakos said.
“In that time, we saw a loss of over 45,000 visitors across two seasons, which likely stripped at least $2 million from our local economy.”
But the cost was more than financial. According to Kapetanakos, the absence of the lakefront also left a cultural and emotional void.
“This isn’t just about tourism. This project is about healing,” he said.
“It’s about helping people reconnect with what this place means and why it matters. Heritage, identity, and mental wellbeing are deeply intertwined.”
The lakefront, once a hub for both recreation and community life, was effectively removed from public access during major infrastructure upgrades. While works are now nearly complete, community leaders say it will take more than pathways and landscaping to bring meaning back to the space.
“You can’t build a community with concrete alone,” Kapetanakos said.
“You need stories, culture, pride, and connection. That’s what Reflections is doing. It gives people something to belong to again.”
The project is aligned with state and local infrastructure investment, including the Snowy Monaro Regional Council’s foreshore redevelopment and the broader Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct plan.
Mental health professionals have long pointed to the value of cultural storytelling and community identity as protective factors in times of change. Research shows that shared purpose and place-based reflection help strengthen community resilience and individual wellbeing, particularly in regional and rural areas recovering from disruption.
By embedding lived experience directly into public space, the Reflections project offers a gentle and accessible way for people to pause, reflect, and reconnect, with each other and with the region’s unique history.
“We have irreplaceable heritage in Jindabyne, Indigenous, Hydro, alpine, national park, and post-war migration stories. And yet we’ve had no real way to share any of it,” said Kapetanakos.
“This is the right project, at the right time, and in exactly the right place.”
The Lake Jindabyne Reflections project is currently seeking funding and partnerships to bring this vision to life.
Funding Finder – Your Gateway to Grant Opportunities
The Jindabyne Chamber of Commerce Funding Finder is a user-friendly portal designed to help community groups, not-for-profits, local businesses, and individuals in our region access funding opportunities.
This free resource provides comprehensive access to a wide range of funding options, including federal, state, and local government grants, as well as support from local organisations, service clubs, building societies, and banks.
In addition to grants, Funding Finder highlights loans, subsidies, commercial funding options, and private philanthropic opportunities, making it easier to identify financial support for projects, business growth, and community initiatives.
Stay informed and explore the latest funding opportunities tailored to Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains region.
Rocking the Lake – A Celebration of Music, Community, and Connection on Australia Day
Jindabyne’s Rocking the Lake event on Australia Day 2025 was an absolute hit! Around 500 people came together to soak up the live music, enjoy the lakeside views, and celebrate in true community style. The event was all about good vibes, great tunes, and making unforgettable memories.
A Day of Music and Fun
This year’s festival brought together five fantastic local entertainers and bands—Tulli Naje, Gabi Forman, Cool Change, The Chuffs, and The Hip Replacements—who rocked the Clay Pits soundstage. The crowd was buzzing as music filled the air, creating an incredible atmosphere with Lake Jindabyne as the perfect backdrop. Whether people were dancing, chilling on picnic blankets, or just soaking it all in, it was a day to remember.
Perfect Weather for a Festival
Mother Nature played nice, giving us a partly cloudy afternoon—just right for an outdoor concert. Families and friends kicked back, enjoyed the tunes, and made the most of the beautiful setting.
Supporting Local Businesses and Making It Easy to Get There
A big highlight of Rocking the Lake was the support from our amazing local businesses and sponsors. We also made sure it was easy for people to get here, with a shuttle bus running from Cooma and stopping at Berridale, the Kalkite turnoff, and East Jindabyne before dropping festival-goers right at the action. It was a great option for those coming from out of town! Next time we’ll squeeze a bus stop in at Tyrolean Village too, and make the pickup a little later so y’all can stay and rock on a little longer…
Huge Thanks to Everyone Involved
A massive shoutout to everyone who helped bring this event to life! From organisers and volunteers to performers and vendors—you all made Rocking the Lake a truly special day.
A special thanks to our sponsors and to the National Australia Day Council for the grant funding that made this whole event possible. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for another grant next year so we can keep the tradition alive!
A huge thanks to Jeremy Paul of The Hip Replacements for pulling together such an epic lineup of bands and sorting out all the sound equipment. The music sounded incredible all afternoon! We can’t wait to see The Hip Replacements rock the stage again at the Jindabyne Snow Ball on May 17th at the Jindabyne Bowling Club.
We also want to give a big thanks to:
Laura and Kane Stamp of Birchwood Café, for bringing the Little Birchy Caravan and treating everyone to mouthwatering waffle desserts, fresh juices, homemade lemonade, and healthy sandwiches. Everything was top-notch!
Dalgety Cricket Club, for firing up the BBQ and serving up a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. Nothing beats a snag at an outdoor festival!
Lara Elliott, for adding a splash of colour with face painting and some gorgeous jewellery—such a fun addition to the event.
Jindabyne Art Gallery, for setting up a painting station where local kids (and a few adults!) got creative with canvas and table easels. Such a hit with the crowd!
Petra Richter and her family, for keeping the waste and recycling in check, saving us extra council fees, and making sure the event stayed clean and green. Absolute legends!
Doug, the Berridale blacksmith, who wowed everyone with his impressive metalwork skills. It was amazing to watch him in action!
Leslie, who showcased her stunning handmade jewellery and clothing, drawing plenty of festival-goers to check out her beautiful pieces.
Looking Ahead to More Good Times
After such an epic event this year, we’re already thinking about the next Rocking the Lake! The turnout, the energy, and the community spirit were incredible, and we can’t wait to do it all over again.
More Than Just Music
Rocking the Lake wasn’t just about great tunes—it was about bringing the community together, celebrating local talent, and making the most of our stunning Snowy Mountains home. Seeing everyone come together to enjoy the day was what made it truly special.
So here’s to next year—same place, same awesome vibes, and hopefully, even bigger and better!
