Christmas is a wonderful time of year for many of us - a time to relax, perhaps reflect, and appreciate friends and family.
But…if someone asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I'd tell them I'd trade all my presents for large helpings of 'truth' and 'recognition', all wrapped up in bright paper topped with big red bows.
In so many ways, for AgForce and for agriculture, this has been a year of recovery, albeit in COVID-induced fits and starts.
We've strengthened many of our relationships - with government, with stakeholders - all in the spirit of doing the best for our farmers, for Queenslanders, and for the nation as a whole.
While Ekka - so often a bridge between city and country - was again cancelled this year, events like Beef 2021 in Rockhampton and the activities of our School to Industry Partnership Program, in connecting thousands of school children and teachers with agriculture, have shown there are paddock-sized amounts of enthusiasm and good will towards industry, and plenty for organisations like AgForce to build upon.
The truth and recognition I crave, however, is for agriculture's credentials on the environment and the fantastic, often unseen, unreported, unacknowledged work done by so many at such great personal expense.
In a year where climate and the environment has dominated media headlines and will continue to do so in the lead up to the Federal election, I vow that AgForce will do all it can to shine a light on the truth and champion your efforts - we owe you at least that much.
We also haven't forgotten those of you doing it tough in seemingly endless drought, while other parts of the State cop a drenching and battle floods.
Please look out for each other this festive season. Reach out to a mate if you see they're struggling and don't be afraid to seek for help yourself.
Our communities are where we are our strongest - now and always.
Merry Christmas everyone.
