From local government elections, public meetings, park openings, markets, and parades my first three months at the Yass Valley Times have been eventful. The excitement of seeing my name in print each week still hasn’t dimmed and I’m not sure it ever will. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a tangible asset to the community.
Yet it still surprises me when locals tell me they have read my stories. It boggles the mind that other people find what I’ve written interesting. Just two months ago I had the opportunity to attend the Yass Beekeepers Society’s monthly meeting at the local apiary. After 18 months of working through a Zoom screen, it was… thrilling. Not just the possibility of being stung by a thousand bees but the ability to finally talk to people about their lives, experiences and to hear their stories in person.
Or perhaps I simply spent too long in isolation? If nothing else, I have a wider appreciation for the simple pleasures of living – browsing stalls at the market, picking up a coffee in the mornings, stopping for brunch on a Sunday. I’m eager to embrace the new year and become more involved in the community. If you see me out and about in town I’m always up for a chat, story tip, or some feedback about the paper.
Journalism makes for an exciting journey in the community with plenty more to see and stories to tell. After working in hospitality, retail, and public relations this has thus far been the most rewarding job I’ve ever had and I look forward to what stories I can tackle in the new year.
Stay safe over the holidays and have a very Merry Christmas.
By Brianna O’Rourke
