G'day readers,
I have had a few readers pose the question to me this week.
Is that light at the end of the COVID tunnel hope or an oncoming train?
I'd like to think it is hope. We will be 80 per cent or more double vaccinated, the borders will open, and if the government gets purpose-built quarantine right, COVID numbers will be minuscule in our community.
Serious academics I speak with challenge my optimism. They argue politicians are cherry-picking the Doherty modelling to give weight to their arguments. They say our hospitals are stretched now and ask how they will cope with more COVID cases. They say children are not included in the modelling figures, and we are heading headlong into something no one wants to experience.
I find it hard to argue against their evidence-based points, but like many of you, I WANT to remain positive because it just feels better to do so.
Murray Trembath tells me I might have reasonable cause to be positive as the Gymea and Engadine postcodes have joined the Oyster Bay area in reaching the 80 per cent first vaccination mark.
The stairs come just in time for the new exercise rules that are in place.
Merryn Porter tells us about that unlimited outdoor exercise and other rules or 'rewards' as the Premier likes to call them, that citizens can now enjoy after some restrictions were eased. What are your thoughts?
It's the vibe Premier Berejiklian is exited about.
Keeping the positive theme alive, Jim Gainsford tells us about WWII veteran 100-year-old Bill Maloney and his wife Elaine, 95. It is an inspiring tale for the times we are in now.
In not so positive news companies with soaring profits that also received wage subsidies will not be forced to repay JobKeeper despite intensifying scrutiny of the scheme. Hardly fair, but within the rules Scott Morrison's government set up.
Here is David Pope's take.
This week's yarn on wonderful things people are doing in our community to make the lives of others better has set our social media pages alight and been shared nationally.
Sarah Falson asks, Who is the 'Loftus angel' leaving love hearts in letterboxes?
Many of you don't want us to find out who the angel is; you feel the mystery is as heartwarming as the act itself. I agree, so we will keep our big journalist's noses out of it and just enjoy the gesture.
Keep letting us know about these beautiful, caring acts of kindness; I love publishing them, it does keep me positive, I will admit.
We are now at more than 4200 subscribers to the weekly wrap email, so thank you to all who make the 'wrap' a part of your Sunday. I appreciate it.
Well, my bacon and eggs and coffee are calling, so I'd better go.
I hope your day is full of love, laughter, music and news. Thanks for reading the Leader.