IT’S officially the most wonderful time of the year and you only have to look around the streets of our merry shire to feel that festive lift. From the dressed-up shop windows to the bustling streets, there’s a touch of festive magic in the air – and nowhere was that more evident than at the annual St Mary’s Christmas Parade.

Walking alongside the excited students of our region, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of pride. The parade was a shining example of what makes our community so special – creativity, collaboration, and a whole lot of heart. The streets of Hamilton came alive with dazzling decorations, enchanting shopfronts, and even a few roving dinosaurs for good measure. A huge thank you to the organisers, performers, and participants who made the evening unforgettable.

Looking ahead, I encourage everyone to help shape our shire’s future by submitting ideas for next year’s budget. Community input has led to incredible projects, from the new Nigretta Falls stairs to solar lighting at Lake Hamilton. Your voice matters, and Council is here to listen.

Speaking of great ideas, Community Partnership Grants are just around the corner! Applications open January 13, 2025. If you have a project that could benefit our Shire, reach out to see if it’s a good fit for funding.

On a more reflective note, this week we bid farewell to the local printing and most staffing of the Hamilton Spectator, a cornerstone of our community for generations. Its legacy of storytelling and connection will always hold a cherished place in our region’s history. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this proud tradition.

This is a really exciting time of year to be in this part of the country. As I’ve now learned, we cop a harsher winter than most of Australia but when the sun comes out, there’s nowhere in the world like it.

It’s easy to take your home for granted but take it from a recent convert like me, this is an exceptional place to live, to work and to raise a family. We are a lucky few who get to experience this place and I know that we are each luckier still to call it home.