A Christmas message from the Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke. Photo: Supplied.
As 2022 draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what a year it has been across the electorate and thank everyone for their ongoing support.
It is a busy time for our farming industries, with windrowing and headers, pickers, and packers in full swing. It is the perfect time of year for us to enjoy the wonderful produce grown and harvested across our region. As we enjoy the festive season, I am encouraging everyone to please shop local, and show your support for our fantastic small-business community.
It is lovely to see Christmas carols and markets planned over December, which will cap off a year where many iconic community events, shows and festivals have returned. It has been so uplifting to see crowds gather once more, enjoying the atmosphere and all that we have to be proud of in our seat of small communities.
As we know, we have seen more than our fair share of rain this year, with much of our electorate and the state impacted by flooding and adverse weather. While it will take some time to recover from these challenges, it also allows us to come back even stronger.
On this note, can I thank everyone for their patience and understanding as local crews work hard to undertake the repairs needed, particularly across our local road networks. If you are travelling to visit family and friends over the holiday period, please take the time to plan, drive to the conditions and take regular breaks.
To our school students, support staff and teachers, enjoy your much-needed break. It has been wonderful to visit several school communities and meet with school leaders throughout the year. For those who may be finishing their schooling, or about to start, I wish you and your families all the very best as you prepare for the next chapter.
We also have many people who will be on call and working over the holiday period. Can I thank our local police, NSW Ambulance, emergency services and health teams who continue to support us year-round. You all deserve an extra serving of pavlova this Christmas!
Personally, I am looking forward to some Christmas fruit cake and spending a little time with my husband, Keith, our extended families, and our trio of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Lolly, Tilley and Peggie.
While it has been a particularly huge year from my perspective, I look forward to seeing you all again soon and continuing to represent the Cootamundra electorate with dedication, energy and tenacity in 2023.
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