We take a look back at the year that was 2020... One thing we have been grateful for this year is you, our community.

2020. What a year you have been...

Bushfires.

Pandemic.

Global Recession.

Social Unrest.

This year has tested us all. 

But let's take a moment to explore some of the positive things that have happened this year...

The first positive aspect of COVID-19 is the effect on the environment. 

Carbon emissions are down globally and this has given the planet a chance to rejuvenate.

• China recorded an 85 per cent increase in days with good air quality in 337 cities between January and March.
• The long-polluted canals of Venice now appear clear as fish and other wildlife start returning.
• New York's pollution levels have reduced by nearly 50% in 2020 compared to 2019 due to COVID restrictions.

Wildlife is also reappearing in other major cities and the biodiversity is slowly starting to return in various parts of the world.

COVID-19 has also raised hopes of fewer battles and less conflict, resulting in increased levels of peace.

According to the ABC, a ceasefire was declared by the Saudis fighting Houthi rebels in Yemen.

A third positive outcome is a rejuvenated sense of community and social cohesion.

People all around the world are finding new ways to connect and fulfil our human need for interconnectedness.

• People put teddy bears in their windows to bring a smile to peoples faces as they went on their daily exercise. 
• People created music from their balconies.
• People are lead street dance parties with individuals dancing in their driveways to maintain social distancing.

Finally, COVID-19 gave us a new sense of appreciation and gratitude.

It has offered us a new perspective on everything we have taken for granted for so long – our freedoms, leisure, connections, work, family and friends. As the saying goes "You don't know what you have until it's gone." We took things for granted on a daily basis, always with the assumption that whenever we needed something, it will be there. We have never questioned how life as we know it could be suddenly taken away from us. 

One thing we are grateful for is you and your continued support!