I HOPE everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.

It was heartening to witness so many people ushering in the new year with fireworks at the Hamilton Showgrounds.

Despite the cancellation of the Rotary Club family party due to the inability to obtain the appropriate insurance, thousands of people still attended the fireworks display.

Unfortunately, there was a misreport on the reason for the party’s cancellation.

It was not due to a council policy on inflatable jumping castles.

Since the tragic incident in Tasmania in 2021 where six young children were killed in an accident on a jumping castle, it is very unlikely that any insurance company in Australia insures inflatable jumping castles.

During the break, I had the honour to assist in serving lunch at the Grace Fellowship No-Cost Café in Hamilton, where four ladies dedicate their time twice a week to serve meals for the less privileged in our community.

Their effort was nothing short of magnificent as they served over 40 meals within a couple of hours and cleaned up afterward.

The same effort is also put forth at the Uniting Church and the Salvation Army once a week.

As Australia Day approaches on January 26, we have the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the volunteers in our shire.

On that day, we will be announcing awards for outstanding volunteers and introducing new citizens to the country.

It is a day to celebrate being Australian, and I encourage everyone to come together at the Hamilton Botanic Gardens and gatherings across all towns.

For a full program of Australia Day events, please visit our website or Facebook page.