Christmas message from Llew O’Brien

15/12/2016

Christmas message from Llew O’Brien

The festive season is a time of peace and goodwill, and I would like to extend my best wishes to everyone in the Wide Bay for a very merry Christmas.

This is an opportunity for us to celebrate with our loved ones, reflect on the year gone by, and think ahead to the coming year.

We also reflect on the meaning of Christmas – the birth of Jesus Christ, who brought love, salvation and the message of peace to all.

In the true spirit of the season, it is important that we are willing to extend a helping hand and offer a caring heart to those who are less fortunate than ourselves – the homeless, the jobless, the sick, and those spending Christmas alone.

We must ask ourselves what we can do to make their festive season a little brighter.

We remember also those who work this Christmas to keep our communities healthy, safe and secure – nurses, doctors, carers for the aged and disabled, emergency workers and police who keep our services running and roads open.

Throughout my policing career, road safety has been something I care deeply about.  It is particularly important to take care on the roads at Christmas time when there is more traffic than usual. The roads will be hazardous, especially if the weather is wet.  Please stay sober if driving, pay special attention and be cautious and courteous on the roads to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Christmas.

While there is far more to Christmas than the gifts, we should also be mindful of where our presents come from.  One of the best ways we can support our producers in these difficult times is to buy locally wherever possible.

May everyone stay safe, and enjoy this time of giving and sharing with their loved ones, family and friends.