The RMS and State Government have been dragging their heels on this issue for far too long. The bypass was lauded as a new beginning, a catalyst for beautification and a welcome reprieve from trucks rumbling through Auburn Street.

These days, those heavy vehicles that come through Goulburn inevitably use Sloane Street. It’s rare to see them in Auburn Street and that’s a great thing in light of recent CBD improvements.

So why does the RMS continue to recognise the main street as a State Road? If indeed it’s linked to road standard, why isn’t it doing maintenance work more often? We suggest it’s because trucks are not travelling the thoroughfare frequently and deteriorating the surface.

Meantime, the council, and by default ratepayers, are paying for any Sloane Street improvements, save for some grant funding for roundabouts. Still, the surface is largely holding up against heavy vehicles.

But it cannot continue. Not until recent years has the council earnestly pushed for the street exchange. Good on them. We should have greater control, without unwanted and nonsensical RMS interference in aspects such as shop signage and beautification measures.

Like every other bypassed centre, Goulburn deserves the right to shape its main street, survive and thrive. 

The RMS in-principle agreement should be honoured. If money’s the issue, our State member must go in to bat.

It was great so see so many young people engaged in Science and engineering activities for the Southern Tablelands Science and Engineering Challenge at the Veolia Arena on Friday.

Nearly 200 students from local high schools took up the challenge to design, build and problem solve various challenges around the room.

The local Rotary groups who got behind this event should be congratulated, not only because of all the planning required to make the day run smoothly, but also because of the $10,000 they contributed to make the day possible.

Well done to all involved for a fun and engaging activity for young people in the district.