Wow. Just… wow. We really don’t have any other words to express our feelings and thoughts about 2020, and I don’t think we’re the only ones in this boat.
From the outset 2020 has marked itself as a year to remember. The start of a new decade should ignite hope and excitement for a bright future but, the bringing in of this one saw Australia absolutely devastated by bushfires ravaging our east coast. From Queensland, all the way down to Victoria, our beautiful wildlife and stunning landscapes were decimated.
At the time, we thought that this would be the event of 2020, the ‘thing’ that would define us as a nation. We would remember and be proud of how we rallied together to support those in need to the best of our abilities. Hindsight is interesting, isn’t it? Never in a million years did we ever think that something else would come along on a global scale that would be even more horrifying. But here we are now, lucky to be moving out of an international pandemic with COVID 19 still delivering its devastating impact across many nations throughout the world.
The gift of gratitude
We could dwell and become overwhelmed, but instead, let’s look to the light. The bush is bursting back to life after the bushfires, and our gorgeous land is beginning to bloom again. Our national, state and local governments joined to take quick and affirmative action to prevent disaster. Because of this, New South Wales is now open for business post-COVID-19. There is no doubt that many social distancing and hygiene regulations in place are here to stay, (click here for the most up to date restrictions). But NSW is now well placed to extend you a big warm, safe welcome back.
It’s been hard. But life after this will be better because we are going to have a far greater understanding and appreciation for the beautiful world in which we live and the freedoms that we enjoy. We will treasure our loved ones and cherish every moment and memory we make with them. We will stop taking for granted all the day to day comforts we value so dearly and see life with new eyes. Brighter eyes.
Humans are not biologically developed to go through difficult times alone. At our core, we are pack animals that thrive in the safety and support of numbers. We recommend embracing those natural instincts by getting out there to help those in our community in need of assistance. The first step on the road to recovery is to get out and support your locals (in a socially distant manner, of course).
How you can help
- Go to small businesses to buy your groceries.
- Go and spend the money you saved while in isolation and buy yourself that camera that you’ve always wanted.
- Start a new hobby.
- Start preparing early for beach season and begin personal training.
- Treat yourself to a midweek meal from your favourite local restaurant.
The options are endless, and so is the hope and joy that businesses will experience when you walk through their doors.
This message goes to everybody. Whether you are a Byron Bay local, somebody road tripping their way through the state or one of our wonderful international readers; your actions make a difference!
Where to from here
Here at Byron Beach Retreats, we have been doing all we can to support the local community. We’re on first names with our local grocer, post office attendant, florist, personal trainer and butcher and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We have used this time to appreciate the simple things and tap into the beautiful natural environment that surrounds us. We are incredibly grateful for the beautiful Byron Bay community that has been our life raft, calmly sweeping us back to shore during these trying times. We hope to see you here soon so you can experience it too.
