Well, readers–we’re home at last. Have just completed ten forums–Georgetown, Greenvale, Charleville, Cunnamulla, Quilpie, Injune, Wallumbilla, Thallon, Winton and Longreach. What an amazing journey, both literally and emotionally for us three ladies and our team of intrepid speakers!! We’ve seen the effects of where rain has fallen, with grass up fence-high and cattle looking well; and up north where there’s been no rain around Longreach/Winton and the situation couldn’t get much worse for graziers up there.
We have had the most wonderful attendances in the smallest towns–people who have often travelled HOURS to come. Being from the bush ourselves, we realise what a sacrifice of time people have made–we hope their investment has been as rewarding for them as it was for us.
We thank our organising teams in each location–their work on the ground makes our role in the community possible, simple as that. Where we don’t have those “go-to” people, things never are as smooth. We thank our most WONDERFUL speakers–Craig Hamilton, who is a legend in travelling to EIGHT of our forums!! Dr Toby ford and Dr Lisa Patterson-Kane, Wayne Wigham (Black Dog Institute) and Dr Sarah Lutkin (Mt Isa Centre for Rural/Remote Health), and all the GP’s who gave of their time to speak in their own communities.
What a privilege it has been to meet so many many wonderful people. We have had nearly 500 people come to our forums. We believe the messages of hope we have carried into communities has been well-received, and we hope that those who have recognised that they need help, or that they know someone who does, will be able to move forward positively.
Thanks to everyone everywhere. I will look forward to posting some photographs of the trip in due course, as soon as I get them organised. We’ve had such a good time!!!
Best wishes to all who follow our site!
Mary Woods Liz Wood Mary Carrigan