By Noosa Mp Sandy Bolton
As the year draws to a close it is difficult to summarise in one column! Months of great hardships with moments of joy sprinkled throughout, with our communities yet again a shining light of unity, resilience and hope, and why we love this home and all its inhabitants so much!
Though this is an end of year ‘wrap’ there is still so much to report on after nearly 4 weeks being at the ‘Big House’ for Parliament, Budget and then Estimates Hearings. My Valedictory speech on behalf of the cross bench endeavoured to capture the year in 15 minutes, and if you get a moment head to www.sandybolton.com where a link to this and the Budget in Reply speech is located, as well via Facebook and the Christmas edition newsletter!! Have I developed a rather pronounced writers’ ‘hunch’ after spending many days and night hovered over the laptop? Yes!! Suffice to say that I cannot wait to get back, zip around with hair on end preparing for the ‘jolly man’, and to be able to wish everyone a fabulous holiday season in person.
After such a huge year, our team is looking forward to their hard earnt break, with our office closing from December 18 to January 4. If you require emergency assistance during this time please call one of the numbers below, alternately any messages or emails will be answered on our return.
• Emergencies 000 • Police Link 13 14 44 (24/7 for non-urgent police matters) •Queensland Government (13QGOV) 13 74 68 • Lifeline crisis support 13 11 14
Further links and contacts are available at www.sandybolton.com/keycontacts/.
As I walk down the street and see the twinkling of Christmas lights and the smiles on so many faces that are preparing to be reunited after many months with loved ones, I am reminded of what is relevant, and vitally important. Caring, sharing and looking out for each other. This includes lending a hand to a neighbour to get fire or flood ready, inviting someone you know who will be alone at Christmas to join your ‘table’ and being mindful of the dangers that our roads, rivers, dams and ocean can present. Slow down, take driver rest stops and help keep everyone safe.
To all, we send the biggest of hugs for a wonderful Christmas wherever you are and whoever you are with! We are excited about the year ahead, so rest up and enjoy your break, as we have a big task list to tackle together in 2021.
