[vc_row][vc_column width=”1/6″ offset=”vc_col-lg-1/5 vc_col-md-1/5 vc_col-xs-1/5″][us_image image=”11081″ size=”thumbnail” align=”left” style=”circle” has_ratio=”1″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/12″ offset=”vc_col-lg-4/5 vc_col-md-4/5 vc_col-xs-4/5″][vc_column_text]By Julian Leeser[/vc_column_text][us_post_date][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Residents of Berowra Electorate, The Christmas season is always a great opportunity to look back on the year that has been, and I have enjoyed reflecting on both the challenges and joys that we have faced as a community throughout 2022.
This year has been a hard one for many of us, with communities along the Hawkesbury River facing their fifth flood in two years. The emotional, physical and financial toll on families and local businesses has been immense. However, I have continued to be inspired by the bravery and perseverance even amidst this hardship. I visited residents along the river both during and after the floods and was proud of the way our community rallied around them.
In early September the world also faced the end of an era with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. I was proud to participate in both local and national events to mourn her loss but also celebrate the many years of service she gave to both our country and the Commonwealth. I was pleased to help plant trees in honour of Her Majesty’s jubilee at Pacific Hills Christian School and look forward to seeing many other community groups take part in the jubilee tree program over the next few years. I wish King Charles III well as he continues his mother’s legacy.
Some of the highlights of my year were the community events I attended in my capacity as the Member for Berowra. I was grateful to meet with various community and religious organisations like the Hills Charity Gala Ball and the Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery and was delighted to present awards to many valuable members of the community at the Hills RFS Award Ceremony and the St John Ambulance awards.
As we look forward to Christmas and spending time with family and friends, I wanted to take the time to also give my thanks to the first responders, defence personnel and all those who cannot be with their families on Christmas day. Thank you for your dedication to serving our community. But to our entire community, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
