Last week, we were privileged to attend three changeover dinners with some of our local service clubs.
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It was a reminder of the various groups that provide opportunities for both fellowship and community action.
There are many projects and activities around the Wimmera that have the fingerprints of men and women from our service clubs all over them.
To our new residents, I would encourage you to consider getting involved with a local club as it is a great way to meet new people, make new friends and work together to improve your new home.
It was particularly encouraging to hear, first hand, the stories from the student exchange programs.
Young people being given the opportunity to visit and live in a different country and culture for 12 months ... life-changing experiences, overseen by the service clubs.
I would encourage you to consider getting involved with a local club as it is a great way to meet new people, make new friends and work together.
The National General Assembly in Canberra was worthwhile, being one of 880 delegates from around Australia.
The highlights for me included attending the Regional Co-operation and Development Forum, hearing about the Indigenous language project, housing opportunities and emergency management in New Zealand.
It was good to listen to Paralympian Kurt Fearnley tell his inspiring story, to hear from the deputy Prime Minister about post-election plans and also bring back some ideas and initiatives for Horsham (including the way tat Lake Macquarie runs its waste and recycling services.)
We had the opportunity to meet with fellow councillors from Tasmania to central Australia and the top of Queensland, also sitting in on the drought forum.
This was a sober reminder of how some farming families are struggling in large parts of New South Wales and Queensland.
Finally, back home last weekend, it was good to be out in the paddock doing some tree planting.
Some wonderful rain has made conditions ideal.
You know, when life events become a bit testing, I encourage you to do yourself a favour.
Put on the daggy work clothes, let the dog off, fill up the watering can and go and plant a tree.
Your grandchildren will thank you.