Author Archives: wendytuckerman

The NSW Minns Labor Government is once again moving to close further wings at the Goulburn Correctional Facility, a decision that is unacceptable and deeply concerning for the Goulburn community.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman said the Goulburn Gaol is one of the most important employers in the region and any reduction in its operation has serious consequences.

“The Goulburn Gaol underpins local jobs and provides stability for many families. Any decision that reduces activity at the facility sends a worrying signal about the future of secure employment in the NSW Public Service across Goulburn,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

It is intended that all four ‘Victorian wings’ at Goulburn Correctional Facility will be closed, with 170 inmates transferred to Junee and Clarence correctional centres. A three to six month consultation period has been flagged.

While the NSW Government has indicated once again there will be no direct job losses, Mrs Tuckerman said this claim does not reflect the lived reality for staff.

“Currently, as I understand, around 70 correctional officers at the facility are on workers’ compensation, some for more than two years. With wings closing and operations scaling back, the impact will inevitably be felt locally – particularly through fewer shifts, reduced overtime and less take home pay,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

“The facility has only just begun employing casual staff again, yet we are now seeing capacity wound back. For workers already doing it tough, because of Labor’s poor economic management, this is deeply unsettling.”

Shadow Minister for Corrections Anthony Roberts said the timing could not be worse for local families.

“This comes at a time when cost of living pressures remain at record highs. Families are struggling with mortgage repayments, rent, fuel and grocery prices,” Mr Roberts said.

“For workers to be told they will technically still have a job, but with reduced hours and income, is simply not good enough.”

Mr Roberts and Mrs Tuckerman confirmed they will be strongly advocating for the protection of existing shifts and hours at the Goulburn Correctional Facility.

Mr Roberts said stakeholders have also raised concerns about broader issues within the corrections system.

“Sources have indicated that the corrections system is currently facing significant financial pressures, with total expenditure reportedly well over budget,” he said.

“Other facilities are also being impacted, with sources suggesting up to 180 beds may be shut at Silverwater, and inmates transferred to Dillwynia.

These announcements are expected to be made at 10.00am tomorrow.”
Union representatives have further highlighted the growing pressure created by domestic violence offender remands, noting that remand periods of 12 to 18 months place significant strain on staff and facilities.

The union has noted that remanded inmates often cannot participate in behavioural programs while awaiting court proceedings, as doing so may risk prejudicing their case.

“This raises serious questions about whether specialist remand facilities or alternative models should be considered. These wings in Goulburn would be an ideal solution, where you have the facilities, you have the workforce,” Mr Roberts said.

Mrs Tuckerman said decisions like these reinforce a growing sense that regional communities are once again being asked to carry the burden of the Labor government’s failures.

“Goulburn should not be treated as an after thought. Our local workers deserve job security and a government that understands the real world impact of its decisions on regional communities,” Mrs Tuckerman concluded.

Grape growers in the Yass Valley and Canberra wine region remain exposed to unacceptable risk as the Wee Jasper hazard reduction burn is considered during peak vintage – despite a state‑wide NSW Wine – RFS communications protocol agreed in January 2023 to minimise smoke impacts on winegrapes.

Local representatives are calling on the NSW Government to intervene immediately, delay the burn until after ANZAC Day (25 April), and ensure genuine, structured consultation with grape growers so they have the time and information to protect their businesses.

NSW Rural Fire Service has advised that current conditions are prime and modelling suggests smoke impacts would be minimal within the present operational window. While acknowledging that work, local leaders and industry representatives stress that modelling does not eliminate risk and any smoke exposure during harvest can result in total crop loss – a risk growers cannot carry after frost and hail losses this season.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman MP said she has spoken directly to the Minister to learn from the mistakes in the Highlands and delay the burn until proper consultation can take place with the industry.

“The broader economic reality demands caution and leadership. This state is already under real economic pressure. Our winemakers must be supported,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

“While RFS strongly believes their modelling is correct and impacts will be minimal, this burn has been delayed for years and does not need to occur during peak grape season. A short delay protects an entire vintage.”

“This is the issue, it’s about timing, governance and giving growers a fair chance to protect their livelihoods.”

“Call me sceptical but the proposed hazard burn is in the same area as the proposed 149 turbine Bondo wind factory. Questions need to be asked about whether this is purely coincidence or further evidence that a foreign‑backed renewable project is subtly getting a priority run here.”

Canberra District Wine Industry Association (CDWIA) President Fergus McGhie said a practical delay would substantially reduce risk for growers across the region.

“If we can wait until ANZAC Day, it would save a lot of pain for the industry,” Mr McGhie said.

“That short window lets growers get fruit off the vine and removes the single biggest risk we face during harvest. We’re not asking to stop hazard reduction – we’re asking for timing and consultation.”

Advertisement of the burn was first announced via RFS social media at 5.35pm on Tuesday, an emergency meeting was held this morning between local wine industry concluding with the RFS advising that they would proceed with the burn unless conditions change.

The Wee Jasper burn has been discussed for approximately eight years, with the current iteration first formally tabled in March 2025. Throughout that time, the sensitivity of vineyards during vintage has been well understood. Yet growers report no formal vineyard representation on local Bush Fire Management Committees, and no locally applied, endorsed protocol guiding decisions where hazard reduction intersects with viticulture.

This is despite NSW Wine and NSW RFS having established in January 2023 a state‑wide communications protocol and shared tools – including vineyard mapping, region‑specific sensitive periods, and a framework for early planning and briefings – specifically to minimise smoke impacts on winegrapes.

NSW Wine Industry Association President Mark Bourne said this situation is exactly what that agreement was designed to prevent.

“NSW Wine and NSW RFS put a communications protocol in place to minimise smoke impacts from hazard reduction on winegrapes,” Mr Bourne said.

“Its success relies on early planning and strong local communication. Where those steps are not fully applied, growers are left exposed at the most critical time of the year.”

Yass Valley Council Mayor Jasmin Jones said the issue reflects a system failure – not individual fault.

“I appreciate the significant work RFS has done to plan for safety and containment,” Cr Jones said.

“But when NPWS has another burn coming forward with even less information, and when established protocols aren’t being fully applied locally, it shows the system isn’t functioning as intended. That puts the Yass Valley and wider Canberra region economy at risk.”

The Canberra wine region – anchored by Riesling and Shiraz – underpins exports, tourism and local jobs. The sector is a major regional employer and economic contributor, with the broader ACT wine and tourism economy valued at around $1.7 billion annually, delivering strong flow‑on benefits to NSW. Growers warn that smoke taint means total loss, not merely reduced quality.

The winners of the NSW Women of the Year Awards 2026 were announced today, recognising the remarkable contributions of women and girls across New South Wales. The Goulburn electorate is proudly celebrating outstanding representation at this year’s ceremony, with two local leaders receiving top honours and a rising young advocate recognised as a statewide finalist.

Member for Goulburn, Wendy Tuckerman, said the awards continue to play an important role in acknowledging the women making positive contributions across NSW every day.

“These award winners and finalists are inspiring role models who reflect the innovation, intelligence and dedication of women right across New South Wales. Their work makes a real difference in the lives of others and deserves to be recognised and celebrated.”

Since 2012, the NSW Women of the Year Awards have honoured women and girls whose determination, bravery, skill and passion have inspired their communities and motivated others to achieve great things.

Gunning’s Jen Medway named Goulburn Local Woman of the Year 2026

Gunning resident Jen Medway has been announced as the Goulburn Local Woman of the Year for 2026.

Jen was recognised for her exceptional contributions to the Goulburn electorate and the Southern Tablelands. Her leadership and service as Secretary of the Gunning Show, her work with Gunning Community Care, and her dedication to strengthening the social fabric of rural communities are highly regarded across the region.

She has been a strong advocate for encouraging the next generation into the wool industry and continues to demonstrate leadership through the National Farmers’ Federation, particularly in advancing Australian agriculture and advocating for improved digital inclusion for regional communities.

Mrs Tuckerman said:

“Jen is a powerhouse, and dedicated to many pursuits. I’m incredibly proud to see her recognised for her work in our community and beyond. Her dedication to improving life in the regions, uplifting rural women, and championing the future of agriculture is both admirable and inspiring.”

Crookwell’s Jo Marshall wins NSW Regional Woman of the Year 2026

Also celebrated today is Jo Marshall of Crookwell, who has been named the NSW Regional Woman of the Year 2026.

Jo is the driving force behind the Australian Agricultural Centre and its Women in Ag program. She inspires and equips the next generation of agricultural leaders through immersive education, hands-on training and innovative programs. Her work opens doors for young people, women and jobseekers who may be disengaged from traditional education, ensuring they have opportunities to build skills, confidence and sustainable employment futures.

Mrs Tuckerman said:

“Jo’s commitment has created strong partnerships across schools, government, industry and community organisations, amplifying her impact well beyond the Southern Tablelands.”

Goulburn’s Hannah Orr recognised as a finalist in The Ones to Watch Award

Goulburn local Hannah Orr, just 14, was also recognised as a finalist in The Ones to Watch category.

Hannah serves as Deputy Youth Mayor and is a passionate member of the Goulburn Mulwaree Youth Council. She has campaigned for improved pedestrian safety, helped deliver major community events including the annual bike ride and Lilac City Festival, and leads school initiatives supporting charities and multicultural students.

“I am incredibly proud of Hannah. At just 14, she is already an exceptional representative for young people in our electorate – a true star in the making.”

Gidget Foundation Founders honoured as NSW Community Heroes

Also recognised today were the founders of Gidget Foundation Australia. Alexandra Berthold, Libby Bowditch, Jacqui Cotton, Stephanie Hughes, Lou Hunter, Kim Mouret and Simone Short were awarded the NSW Community Hero Award.

For 24 years, these remarkable women have worked to improve mental health support for parents across NSW following the loss of their sister and friend Louise, known affectionately as “Gidget,” to postnatal depression in 2001.

In her honour, the group established Gidget Foundation Australia, which today operates 39 Gidget Houses and has delivered over 108,000 specialist mental health appointments, supporting more than 12,700 families. The foundation’s services are available to families in Goulburn, providing vital perinatal mental health support in the region.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman alongside Southern Highlands residents are welcoming the commencement of major repair works on Wombeyan Caves Road and Meryla Road, marking the beginning of long awaited upgrades following years of community advocacy.

The affected local communities have consistently raised concerns about safety, access, and the worsening condition of both roads after multiple storms and floods. Representations, submissions and ongoing communication from residents have played an important role in keeping pressure on the State Government authorities to prioritise these essential upgrades.

The newly announced $6.1 million disaster recovery works, jointly funded by the Australian and NSW governments, will be delivered by Wingecarribee Shire Council and will restore safe, reliable access on two of the region’s most significant local road corridors.

The upgrades will include:
• Slope stabilisation in several high risk areas
• Drainage improvements to reduce future weather impacts
• Pavement reconstruction across heavily damaged locations
• Repairs at seven sites along Wombeyan Caves Road
• Repairs at three sites along Meryla Road

Construction for both roads is scheduled to begin this month. Works on Meryla Road are expected to be completed by July 2026, while Wombeyan Caves Road is projected for completion by September 2026. Traffic management will be in place only in active work zones to minimise disruption.

Mrs Tuckerman acknowledged the significance of the announcement.
“Residents have been calling for these repairs for a long time, Council has been advocating for funding to complete this. These roads are critical for residents everyday travel, tourism access, and emergency services. To finally see construction about to begin is a major win for the entire community.”

“The commencement of works reflects the persistent efforts of locals who have consistently highlighted safety concerns, accessibility challenges, and the need for government support to restore these vital routes.

“These repairs will strengthen the Southern Highlands’ resilience, improve road safety for all users, and ensure communities remain connected during severe weather events.

“The start of construction marks a positive step forward and a much needed response to years of compounding weather impacts on regional infrastructure,” Mrs Tuckerman said.

Member for Goulburn Wendy Tuckerman has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of funding to improve accessibility and safety at Yass Junction Station, noting the upgrade is an important step toward ensuring safer and more inclusive transport options for the region.

The works, currently in the design and planning phase, include an upgraded waiting room, new accessible seating, improved bathroom amenities including a family accessible toilet, new tactiles, and enhanced wayfinding and lighting.

These improvements fall under the Safe Accessible Transport program, designed to make public transport safer and easier for all passengers, including older people, families and people with disabilities.

“Any investment in Yass Junction Station is warmly welcomed by our community,” Mrs Tuckerman said “These upgrades will certainly make a difference for locals who rely on the station for travel and connection.”

However, Mrs Tuckerman also emphasised that while the upgrades are appreciated, the NSW Government must consider the broader challenges surrounding the station’s accessibility.

“Yass Junction Station is located well out of town, and for many residents, getting there is the biggest barrier,” she said. “There’s little to no public transport to the station. Besides asking a friend who can drive you, it’s extremely difficult to reach.”

Mrs Tuckerman also raised concerns about the condition of the road leading to the station.

“The access road is in poor shape and poses safety issues of its own. If the Government is committed to genuinely improving accessibility, then safe, reliable transport connections and road improvements must be part of the conversation.”

I look forward to seeing more detail as planning progresses and welcome Transport for NSW’s commitment to engaging with locals to understand the community needs.

“These consultations are important, and we hope they lead to a holistic approach – one that recognises that accessibility is not just about what happens on the platform, but also about ensuring everyone in our community can get to the station safely and independently.”

Mrs Tuckerman remains optimistic that the project will continue to evolve, ensuring the station upgrades deliver long-term benefits for all passengers.

More information available here: https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/yass-junction-station