Community Princess, Brittany Hackett here!
Due to COVID-19, we have had a very quiet month with not much to report. Myself and Hannah did however, join Adam Drummond on Wagga TV for a brief conversation surrounding the unfortunate decision to postpone this year's Quest, as well as our Sister City visit and upcoming events. If you have not tuned in, you can find the interview on the Wagga TV Facebook page.
I truly hope you are all looking after yourselves in these difficult times. Mental health is a very important topic for me and I understand at times, the current global health crisis and Government restrictions can play on your emotional wellbeing and mindfulness. My tip is - where you can, practice self-care and continue to check in with your family and friends via video links and telephone. Remain positive and I hope to see you all soon, out and about within our beautiful City of Wagga Wagga.
All the best,
Brittany Hackett
Community Princess 2020
Although it feels so long ago now, it has been only a month since we last spoke.
The Government restrictions under the current COVID-19 pandemic environment have made for a few interesting ways in which we connect with each other. Starting earlier in the month when Brittany and I joined Adam Drummond for a video interview. We discussed the 2021 Miss Wagga Wagga Quest and our plans for Easter. At first it felt a little strange being interviewed over a call in our homes but soon became a bit of a novelty and reminded me how lucky we are, living in Australia and having the technology to still be connected.
For me, Easter has always been a great time of the year for family to come together in the one place. This year however we found ourselves scattered around. Leading up to the day I was feeling sad that we would not have that opportunity this year, especially my mum’s beautiful food. However looking back, I can't remember what I had for dinner this year but I know I had a lovely time relaxing and enjoying the day spending time with my household.
This year's ANZAC Day was an event I had been looking forward to for quite a while. The opportunity to walk in the annual march and lay a wreath is an honour I was humbled to be asked to be a part of, and I look forward to ANZAC Day in 2021. This year, I will remember the day however in a different but nevertheless special moment. Sitting at the end of my driveway, joining in the national radio broadcast before playing the Last Post on the cello to everyone else in my street is a moment I will never forget. The sombre mood yet proud aura of respect felt is a beautiful reminder of those fallen heroes who gave the eternal sacrifice for our country. Lest we forget.
Finally then, with the success of our wider community flattening the curve of cases of COVID-19 I would like to take this time to thank each and every essential worker and most especially those working in our health care system. I would like to further reiterate the need to continue to practise good personal hygiene, washing our hands regularly, and practising social distancing. The months ahead will still be a great challenge to each of us individually but in saying that, you are not alone.
Wagga Wagga is an extraordinary community of extraordinary people and I urge anyone who is struggling to reach out. Whether that be to family, friends or reach out to us through the Miss Wagga Wagga Quest Facebook page or website, please if you feel like you need help, we are here.
All my Love,
Hannah Smith
Miss Wagga Wagga 2020