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East Gippsland Shire Council Mayor Christmas message for 2021

Mayor Cr Mark Reeves, Christmas message December 2021 for East Gippsland Shire community.

By news@gippsland - 13th December 2021 - Back to News

Whether you're keeping it local or enjoying your festive freedoms further afield this year, one thing is certain - it's time to recharge the batteries. Christmas means different things for all of us, but we can all support local businesses, be kind to one another, or maybe reach out to help someone who may be less fortunate (if you can).

East Gippsland Shire newly elected mayor, Mayor Cr Mark Reeves

In the hustle and bustle

I love Christmas, my favourite time of year - family, friends, warm weather and events - and this year, for many of us, it will be one like no other as we unite with loved ones and reinvent our way of life.

I will be revelling in the hustle and bustle of our regional streets or be on the beaches as we welcome inter and intra-state visitors, passers through, family members and friends from near and far to this wonderful, resilient shire of ours. Yes, the last two years have been demanding on us all - individuals, families, children, business owners, farmers, tourist operators; everyone.

One challenge after another

As your newly elected Mayor, it would be easy for me to discount these seemingly endless months of literally one challenge after another and say, 'Let's just put all of that in the rear vision mirror'. But, as your civic representative, I think it's important that we keep these times right in our sights to remind us of what we've confronted, what we've learned and what we've achieved.

And haven't we achieved a lot? Our vaccination rate is amongst the highest in the state. Consistently meeting our targets, we had 95% of our population 15 years and older double dosed by the middle of November. An outstanding effort from everyone.

Supporting one another

We've supported one another and our community and local businesses have stuck together so we can start emerging from COVID restrictions with some optimism. The summer break is a great time to reconnect, to take the time to enjoy unrestricted travel or bask in the beauty of your own backyard.

As we look ahead to 2022, I know our community has the resilience, capacity and ability to thrive with the continued support and optimism of our community members. On behalf of the Councillors and staff, I would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas, happy holidays and a fruitful 2022.

Pictures from One Gippsland website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com