This year we’ve all faced so much disruption and isolation, and my biggest challenge came when my elderly mother suffered a life-threatening illness and was hospitalised in another state with its borders closed to me.

Once I secured permission to enter Western Australia from Victoria, and completed two weeks of hotel quarantine, I really appreciated being able to spend a few months caring for Mum after months of strict lockdown in Melbourne and thankfully, she is now well on the path to recovery.

A heartfelt thank you to my clients for your ongoing support and flexibility which helped make it possible for me to spend this time supporting my mother back to health. The lines between work and home life became more blurred for all of us this year as we honed skills in remote working. In addition, I really appreciated being able to continue delivering your important projects while working across Australian time zones.

Thank you also to the clients who entrusted me to help you plan and prepare for issues and crises, and to navigate the pandemic by putting in place communication strategies and implementation plans to help people in your organisation and networks manage through uncertainty, isolation and change.

Amid the trials of the year, 2020 has also brought a good reminder about what’s most important. Top of the list for me is the people with whom I am connected – my family, friends and clients – the opportunity to spend time in our natural environment, and maintaining good health.

This festive season, I’m planning to savour the simple joy of spending time with people, while supporting local businesses and enjoying the diverse beauty of Melbourne and Victoria.

Our office will be closed from 24 December to 6 January 2018, reopening on Thursday, 7 January – but please don’t hesitate to reach out if it’s an emergency.

I look forward to continuing our conversation in the new year about how effective communication can help you achieve better business and community outcomes.

Whatever your beliefs and circumstances, I hope the festive period brings you an opportunity to stop, refresh and reconnect with people who are special to you, and with our community and natural world. Above all, please stay safe and well.

Best wishes
Mairi

PS: Thank you to my talented sister Janet Robertson for the use of her beautiful hand-drawn mandala on our Christmas card this year! 🙂