In an era where children get awards for simply showing up, I find the Australia Day Awards refreshing.
At the state and national level recognition goes to deserving individuals. Personally, I love this opportunity to recognise grass roots achievers. Often their good deeds are not normally publicised, even though their contribution to community life is significant.
People who nominate others give us the chance to be reminded of all the good there is out there. Rural communities survive because of the contribution of the individuals who live within them.
Many of these people, although deserving, will not win an award for their commitment. This is because being a helpful neighbour and active in the community is just what we do in the bush and many are uncomfortable with public recognition.
Our family was reminded of this recently.
Following a lightning strike in the neighbouring national park, the 10 days over the Christmas period were consumed with battling a bush fire that eventually burnt over 14,000 acres on one of our properties, while threatening many others.
Christmas Eve was spent backburning in the national park, with landholders working alongside park staff. Mother Nature, unlike paid employees, doesn't take holidays.
The lack of national park staff and the delay in taking action to manage the fire meant by the 26th, the fire had crossed the Dawson River onto our property. When neighbours heard the news their response was 'how can we help' and 'what do you need'.
Each afternoon, for three days in a row, the heat and crazy wind caused the fire to break containment lines into the next paddock. Christmas was put on hold, New Year's Eve parties were cancelled but, every day, people turned up to the fire front in good spirits ready to do their bit.
Away from the fire front meals were being cooked, groceries collected and children minded. Everyone's contribution helped. For weeks the fire was monitored and although additional resources weren't needed, people still rang to offer assistance.
Human interactions involving empathy, kindness and care are essential elements to ensuring what you do has meaning.
I am grateful our family started 2019 with this reminder of all the good there is in rural communities.
No doubt we will have to draw on this memory the next time we hear criticism of Australia's primary producers.
For the record, amongst the over 50 volunteers saving the flora and fauna I did not see any of the people who condemn the environmental credentials of farmers and graziers.
– Brigid Price, Rural Resources
