Good news lifts the spirits

Shrek, Princess Fiona and their two mini donkeys delighted the people of Emerald during the fourth lockdown.

By Gabriella Payne

In the midst of Melburnians’ fourth lockdown back in early June this year, some people were struggling to stay positive – but not everyone.

They say every cloud has a silver lining and thanks to the work of some optimistic community members who persevered throughout the dark times, this saying couldn’t have rung truer.

In an effort to share a bit of positivity with our readers, the Gazette decided to shine a light on some of the good news stories that were happening in the Cardinia Shire back in our 9 June edition, and it was a welcome break from the daily Covid press conferences, that’s for sure!

From happy chalk drawings and messages of hope on footpaths, to random acts of kindness with people paying forward meals, coffees and even petrol, there were a range of stories that helped bring a smile to our faces during this difficult year.

Emerald locals were even treated to an extra special surprise visit from Shrek, Princess Fiona and their two donkeys that month, when local residents Tiffany and Brendan Smith dressed up and went for a walk through town, all in the hopes of brightening peoples spirits.

It certainly did the trick and it was great to see the community banding together even through the toughest of times – here’s to more good news!