As we near the end of what has been another year of significant achievement across the Scenic Rim, I am sure many of you are looking forward to some downtime, to recharge, to reflect and to prepare for new opportunities in 2024.

As we travel across the region, Denise and I are always encouraged by the resilience of our communities and the rich examples of generosity of spirit that are on display. This always shines brightest as we near Christmas. It is evident in the Christmas trees and Community carols right across our towns and villages.

It is also evident in the magnificence of the street decorations. Thank you to the community volunteers who work together to yarn bomb the streets with ornaments. Thank you also to those individual householders who are lighting up their properties to share the joy of Christmas with everyone who passes. We love to drive around and enjoy these with our grandchildren.

It is this community spirit and willingness of volunteers to make a difference and bring joy to the lives of others year-round that is a true strength of our region.

We have much to be grateful for and, whatever your plans for the Christmas-New Year period, we wish you an enjoyable time of fellowship with those nearest and dearest to you.

Recent events around the world have brought home to us the importance of taking time to reflect on what is most important in life and of the great gift we have in our families and communities. Remember also that Christmas is a season built on celebrating the birth of Jesus, a Special Gift indeed.

There are many across our communities who will be doing it a bit tougher this year. I encourage you to consider the joy that is possible through donating to those who reach these families and individuals.

If you still have Christmas gifts to buy, I urge you to shop locally to support our community, its artists and artisans, and our producers of gourmet food and beverages for which the Scenic Rim continues to achieve recognition.

Shopping locally provides a gift that keeps on giving for our local businesses which are the backbone of the Scenic Rim’s economy, providing valuable jobs for local people.

I hope that you are as excited as I am by the possibilities that lie ahead for our region and I look forward to seeing you in 2024.

Denise and I wish each of you a Blessed and Safe Christmas, filled with joyous celebration.