Thank you to our farmers, who have been harvesting to ensure we have the cleanest and greenest food on our tables, also support local businesses and buy Australian-made products where you can this Christmas.
Every year Christmas seems to come around faster and faster, with our ever-increasingly busy lives mere passengers in a greater machine.
It is difficult to slow down, particularly amongst last-minute shopping and navigating the hustle and bustle of Christmas and holiday preparations.
As I say every year, please take care if travelling on our regional roads over the holidays and, if you plan on using our beautiful waterways, please remember to be sun smart and water wise.
We owe a debt of gratitude to those who give their time to support and serve others, often having to work instead of spending time with loved ones – our health care workers, emergency service and defence force personnel, aged care and disability workers. Thank you for being exemplary, community- minded members.
Remain cognisant that, for many, this time of the year is associated with painful feelings of loneliness and loss. It is important to display compassion, understanding and, most of all, patience to all we encounter – we never can fully understand what another person is going through. To those who spend time with the homeless and less fortunate – your kindness and selflessness is always appreciated.
It is always important to remember the reason for the season – the birth of Jesus Christ. It is about spending time with family and friends – winding back and focusing on the things which really matter. Catherine, my family, my staff and I extend our best wishes to all for a happy Christmas and a safe and healthy 2024.