Editor's Note

Hi Everyone,

It’s been a huge week here at the paper as, not only have we been busy producing the newspaper you are holding, but we have also been working on the first edition of our new sister publication, Burdekin Life Newspaper.

Over the past few weeks, we have welcomed three new staff members and moved our Mackay journalist to Home Hill where he has become our ‘man on the ground’.

As I am writing this on Wednesday afternoon, our entire team are about to head up to the Burdekin to attend a special Burdekin Council Industry Breakfast which is due to take place on Thursday morning.

We have been told by the Council that the entire event is sold out, with almost 100 people attending, which is very exciting news for us.

This event also represents a milestone moment for me, as it will be the first time in my adult life that I have stood up in front of a room full of people to give a speech.

And to be quite honest – I am terrified!

Throughout my professional career I have quietly avoided any opportunities to speak to an audience, but I have decided it is time to meet my fears head-on.

Apparently, a fear of public speaking and a fear of death both sit at the top of the table when it comes to what most people are scared of, and I can understand why!

For the past few weeks, I have been practicing my speech and, thanks to two dear friends and a patient partner, I have a lot of support in my pocket which I am grateful for.

By the time you read this on Thursday evening or Friday morning, my speech will be complete – but right now I am full of nervous excitement and a sense of responsibility – I hope I get it right!

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Feel the fear and do it anyway!” (Susan Jeffers)

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