Please enjoy reading a Christmas message from our Acting National Director Rob Floyd.

Christmas is a chance to spend time with loved ones and reflect on the things for which we are most grateful. As I hear stories from across Australia of the work of our Bush Chaplains and our many volunteers, as I reflect on the great generosity of our supporters, I am grateful for these people who continue to show such compassion for people doing it tough in rural and remote Australia.

While many of us take time at Christmas to celebrate all that we have and can enjoy, for some of our sisters and brothers in remote areas, the realities of everyday life cannot be set aside so easily. Life continues to throw up challenges which cannot be avoided..

In Western Australia, significant blazes in Cervantes and Henderson have only recently been brought under control. The Riverena in New South Wales has ‘transformed into an inland sea’ due to floods which continue to move along the Murray River into South Australia. Others across Australia wonder if this season will bring cyclones or other destructive weather events. The team at Frontier Services pray that the people, families and communities impacted remain safe and find joy and solace over the holiday season  and into the new year ahead.

Our thoughts are also with those in the bush impacted by illness and isolation. I have been so thankful for the efforts of our Bush Chaplains and Outback Links volunteers, who, throughout the most trying of times in 2022, have all stepped up when needed, showing tremendous courage and resilience in their commitment to standing alongside people in the bush.

To all our sisters and brothers living in rural and remote Australia and to our generous donors and supporters, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous New Year.