IN a recent discussion with Professor Gordon Parker AO, the founder of The Black Dog Institute, he emphasised to me that social harmony has positive mental health outcomes for our community.
Community spirit and harmony in our area has been front and centre throughout the pandemic, with the community coming together to support and look after one another, despite the challenges we have faced.
From grassroots and community-led initiatives to State-wide programs, we have responded emphatically in our shared fight against COVID-19.
The impressive vaccination rate is a demonstration of our community spirit, with almost everybody rolling up their sleeves for themselves, their families, their community and our State, producing one of the highest vaccination rates in the world.
Ku-ring-gai and Hornsby local government areas both have parts that make up the State electorate of Ku-ring-gai and have some of the highest vaccination rates in the State. They were some of the first areas to achieve and surpass the 70 per cent and 80 per cent targets.
The proactivity of our community has contributed to the State reaching its target vaccination rates earlier than initially anticipated, allowing the easing of restrictions that we are now enjoying.
We are all thankful to the health care workers for their tireless work and commitment to facilitate these great rates with their advice to patients and administration of vaccines.
On the ground projects and services run by local organisations have provided social, emotional and practical assistance to vulnerable people. Programs range from translation services, to boosting social connection in COVID-safe ways, to technology training, to providing meals and groceries.
The Dae Hahn Culture School and The North Shore Sikh Association of Sydney Inc are two of the local organisations providing local social services and have been recognised by the NSW Government in the form of funding through the Empowering and Supporting Local Communities Program.
I am very proud of and grateful to our community for their active engagement in many ways throughout the pandemic and in demonstrating the remarkable community spirit we share.