While some COVID-19 curbs have been reinstated and held in place until July 12, other areas of life have continued to see restrictions being eased.

I'm looking forward to heading back into the gym this week for the first time in nearly three months.

In all this, we should not forget that in the Wimmera we've been doing a stellar job keeping numbers low.

At the same time, when the chance came we were out and about enjoying the great beauty of the area.

We've managed to go out for a meal or a coffee to support local businesses. We brought in friends and family over the recent long weekend. They are, hopefully, planning on coming back.

We're looking forward to our wider social networks and our community groups re-establishing face-to-face meetings when the time is right. Until then there is the telephone and Zoom meetings.

There's so much community spirit in the area. We have supported each other through these tough times and will continue to do so through this hiccough.

For that is what it will be if we continue do the right thing. Keep our social distance, wash our hands, keep an eye on those nearest and dearest to us. Hugs might be on hold but caring isn't.

If you think you might have been exposed to COVID-19 err on the safe side and get yourself checked. It isn't worth the risk of passing it on.

We know that people want to get back to their lives, but wishing the virus away won't make it so. But step by step things will get back to a "new normal".

What does that mean for you?

We want to hear about your stories of the COVID-19 era, hear about how it has affected you.

You can fill in our survey or send me an email letting me know how you've coped and what you hope for the future ... when the brake comes off again.

Juanita Greville

Acting Editor

juanita.greville@austcommunitymedia.com.au