Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year From Andrew Willcox Opinion Piece

Christmas is fast approaching and the new year following closely behind, it seems like 2023 has gone by in flash.

With the holiday season soon to be in full swing, I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, we should be reminded that it’s not the number of presents under the Christmas tree that counts, but the time spent, and the love shared with family and friends that makes this time of year so special.

I know that everyone has been doing it tough this year. We have seen the cost of everything go up, from energy prices, groceries, interest rates, mortgages, and rent.

That’s why this year it is more important than ever to help each other out and show everyone as much support as possible.

There are more ways than one to do this, from buying your Christmas presents locally and championing family-owned businesses in your community, to donating to a charity, if you can afford to, items such as essential products, nonperishable food items, clothing or small gifts for families who may be doing it a little tougher than most.

To those of you are working this holiday period, I want to thank you for your tireless contribution and for keeping our region running.

So, no matter what you choose to do over this holiday break, whether it be exploring our beautiful region or even travelling further afield interstate or overseas, have a fantastic time and return home safe.  

Or if you’ve chosen to stay home and enjoy some quiet time or have all the family joining you, I hope that everyone has a wonderful time and I look forward to seeing you all in 2024.