Christmas means different things for each of us, but in a year when ‘normal’ and ‘routine’ have needed to be abandoned, the approaching Christmas season may feel like a very welcome traditional time, charged with a renewed sense of meaning.

Many people have found the enforced changes to our routines this year have brought a new recognition of the importance of family, friends, neighbours and community as well as for our ability to enjoy beautiful natural environments. I hope that each of us will be able to enjoy these blessings in ways big and small over the Christmas break.

If you have children around you and have the ability to play, dance, laugh, sing, then you will be fortunate indeed.

Of course, if we are fortunate enough to receive, I hope we will also be inspired to reach out to others. Please, be kind to one another especially those who may not have family and friends around or who just need that little extra support.

There are so many people in our communities who are deserving of our deep and ongoing gratitude for all the work they have done to protect and support us this year. For these people especially, may you find time to relax and be fully replenished.

In the spirit of Christmas, I hope each of us will have an opportunity to stop to rest to reflect, and to pay attention to what is most important in life. I hope we will all find opportunities to feel gratitude even for the smallest of blessings and I hope we will feel joy.

On behalf of Council staff and my Councillor colleagues, I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year.

- Mayor Cr Mendy Urie

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