Throughout the last two years of extraordinary and trying times, our community has been lifted by the many who choose to help.
Strong communities have people who look after each other and one of the best ways to find hope in these times, is to look at the helpers. And we are blessed in the Blue Mountains to have so many. As we recover from the latest natural disaster, as well as deal with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we want to shine a light on the helpers in all their forms.
Blue Mountains Mayor, Councillor Mark Greenhill said: "You may have seen the fabulous banners along the Great Western Highway. They're just one small way we as Council are spreading this message. And I'm overjoyed to be a part of it and add my thank you as well.
"Who are we thanking? It's not just the people you'd expect or often hear about. Our community is full of people and businesses who have cared for the most vulnerable among us.
"Doctors, nurses, aged care workers, carers and all members of the medical community who have worked tirelessly and selflessly to test and treat us during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Firefighters, SES, Police and all emergency service workers and volunteers who have fought fires, evacuated people, dealt with flood waters, and leant a hand wherever it was needed.
"Teachers and support staff who have continued to teach and nurture all of our children, and support families in exceptional and constantly changing circumstances.
"Retail workers, restaurant workers, truck drivers, posties and delivery drivers who have kept us fed, clothed and entertained along the way.
"Local businesses who have gone above and beyond to help those in need, despite being stretched and hurting themselves.
"Community groups who have delivered care packages and continue to provide support to those in need.
"The neighbours and new friends who took care of the vulnerable and isolated, whether they knew them or not.
"All of you are the helpers and the hope givers. You have shown what it is to love local in every way. Kindness, care and respect are the glue that keeps communities together. Thank you for being there for all of us," Mayor Greenhill continued.
"Your generosity, kindness and compassion is inspiring and makes us proud to be your Council.
"It has been an exceedingly tough couple of years, and there's lots of work to do yet to get our City back in shape. This thank you campaign is about lifting us all up as we continue to work together to recover and thrive once again."
Have you been helped by someone? Or been touched by an act of kindness over the last two years? You can say thanks by posting on social media and using the hashtags #ThankYou #BlueMountains to share your story with the community.
You can also say 'Thank you for all you do' by nominating someone for a Blue Mountains Citizen of the Year Award. Nominations have been EXTENDED to Sunday, 8 May 2022. Go to Have Your Say for more information.
Photo: Mayor Greenhill (centre) with Council's Tourism Development Program Leader Lara Bohdanowicz (left) and Economic Development program leader David Somerville (right) saying, 'thank you'.
