FRIDAY was my last day editing The Spectator, after just over two years in the role.

And what a ride it’s been.

Being trusted to inform the Greater Hamilton community with news that matters most, comes with a lot of responsibilities.

Readers have a right to be informed, entertained and sceptical all at once. And the relationship between the reader and the paper’s editorial department is what means the most.

I take great pride in having worked for a newspaper that has been publishing since 1859 and has continually represented the close-knit south-west Victorian community - home to so many wonderful people, each with their own amazing stories.

I am grateful for the opportunity bestowed upon me by the Spectator Publishing Group’s Managing Director and Publisher, Richard Beks, and Group General Manager, Greg Stevens.

In the last two years and 10 months I have been at The Spec, including the nine months in various positions before becoming Editor, it has been an honour to relay your stories and break new ones.

It was evident to see the community spirit in the Southern Grampians really pick up in the last couple of years after a tough time during the pandemic, with many events and activities bringing the area back to life.

Hamilton is a great country town, with many perks, and everyone who contributes to our way of life should be proud.

Thank you to all the Spectator Group staff, our newsroom, the contributors and feature writers, people who bravely come forward and share their story, those who send in Letters to the Editor, people who volunteer story ideas, the many who agree to have their photo taken, and to all of you who consistently support us by reading the paper.

I hope you have enjoyed reading The Spec under my direction, and you are in good hands with Sub Editor and Chief of Staff, Mark Rabich, assuming the Editor role next week.

I say farewell now, moving on to my next adventure, so thank you to all the loyal readers.