After what has been an incredibly difficult year, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas.
Christmas is a time for Christians around the world to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and the message of love, peace and forgiveness. It is a time of compassion, reflection, and appreciation.
It is also an opportunity for families to get together and reflect on the year that has passed and look forward to a better year ahead.
This year, the people of NSW have braved bushfires, floods and drought and continue the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. I admire the strength and resilience I have seen as well as the compassion shown to those who have been doing it tough. Thank you for looking out for each other during difficult times.
My thoughts today are especially with those whose plans have been turned upside down by the pandemic whether in self-isolation, the Northern Beaches or unable to return to families elsewhere. And of course our frontline workers who have been protecting us all year and keep up that critical work on Christmas Day.
I am optimistic that 2021 will be brighter and filled with hope. I wish you joy and peace, health and happiness for the year ahead.
A very Merry Christmas to all of you.