They came, they trekked and Tumbatrek triumphed

Those who participated in the annual Tumbatrek event on Saturday conquered the trek having taken in spectacular views, made new friends and perhaps went home with a few blisters and a bit of sun-burn, but Tumbarumba and local tourism proved to be as triumphant according to the Nationals’ Member for Riverina and Minister for Small Business, Michael McCormack.

Initiated in 1985 by the former Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Farrer the Hon Tim Fischer AC, Tumbatrek continues to attract significant interest from politicians, community leaders and members of the public, highlighting to the region and beyond the natural beauty of the Snowy Mountains.

“Having participated in the annual Tumbatrek for the past five years as the local Member, I was proud to take part again for the sixth time, not as the local member (owing to the change of electorate boundaries in 2016) but as the Minister for Small Business,” Mr McCormack said.

“It was good in the Tumbatrek spirit of bipartisanship to welcome my electorate neighbor, the Member for Eden-Monaro, Mike Kelly and introduce him to the popular and long-standing Tumbarumba tradition.

“I was also pleased to have my State Parliamentary colleagues, the Member for Albury Greg Aplin and Upper House Member Bronnie Taylor join me for the trek.

“I’ve referred to Tumbatrek as a triumph. It has been a triumph for the organisers of the event. A triumph for the trekkers who finished the walk and took in the spectacular alpine vistas during the scenic walk through the boundary of the Kosciuszko National Park and a triumph for the many small businesses in town, the likes of café owners, fuel stations and accommodation providers who certainly enjoyed the welcome boost to the local economy thanks to the increase in local tourism.”

Event organiser Marilyn Gilbert was pleased with the success of the iconic trek and her comments were echoed by Snowy Valleys Council Administrator Paul Sullivan who also thanked Council staff for their outstanding efforts in preparing for the event.

Mr McCormack said he was pleased the annual event continues to stimulate the local economy and the community sees the benefits this increase in tourism brings to the town and the fact it promotes the best of local tourism and natural attractions in the Snowy Mountains.

“It was fantastic to have taken part once again and I congratulate everyone who was involved with the organisation of Tumbatrek.” 

Cristy Houghton