Lockdown lifts leaving much to be thankful for
By Deanne Jeffers
WHILE enduring the pandemic and public health orders have contributed to unprecedented stress, the Goulburn Valley is teeming with uplifting stories of solidarity, charity, and togetherness.
Until August 20 the region had remained relatively free from coronavirus. By the end of the day, case numbers were in the double-digits and within two weeks Shepparton’s cluster had grown to more than 120, forcing almost one-third of the population into isolation.
With so many employees unable to leave their home, the Australian Defense Force (ADF) was deployed to Shepparton to assist with door-to-door checks and other essential work.
Businesses and charity organisations from around the state did not hesitate to get involved, particularly in providing food to households suddenly unable to access meals.
One local leader heeding the call was Azem Elmaz from Luftiye’s Shish Kebab in Wyndham Street, Shepparton. Mr Elmaz, who began supplying free meals in 2020, saw demand jump from 120 meals a day to more than 500 meals requested daily.
Shepparton’s Foodshare, Kyabram’s Foodbank and the Goulburn Valley’s GV Cares network are only a few examples of local organisations who have rallied together to bring essentials to those in need.
GV Health have seen some of the best displays of humanitarianism, welcoming in excess of 200 health professionals from other regions to assist with the outbreak response. Many more volunteers, including the ADF, assisted in community and welfare support.
While the situation has been challenging, impacting most businesses, families and individuals, many have expressed heart-warming gratitude to see the generosity of people and how regional communities band together in times of a crisis.
One resident, Athalie Cornish from Shepparton, wanted to say that “They’re all doing a marvellous job. It’s just fantastic to think of all the support that has been sent up Shepparton way. How lucky are we?”
Do you have an individual or group you wish to say thank you for their service during lockdown? Write in your message to editorial@sheppartonadviser.com.au
