And while the stress and heartache of the fire crisis, which triggered all this attention, still remains a bit raw, the stories celebrated and applauded our valley’s strong community spirit.

The 7.30 ACT program broadcast “BlazeAid in Bookham” about the devastating impact the fires had on our local farmers, in particular Louise Armour, the Southwell family and Ian McGrath. It depicts the generous support offered by a group of strangers, referred to by some as “grey nomads”, who have volunteered to spend months in our region repairing farm fences.

The other story, “Yass Heralds the Tribune”, also by 7.30 ACT, congratulated our paper on its efforts to keep residents informed of the imminent fire threat by utilising not only its paper editions, but through constant updates on its website, Facebook and Twitter social media pages.

It showed the positive feedback from the community was overwhelming and at a time when the future of the traditional printed newspaper is in doubt, reinforced the role smaller newsrooms have within their own communities. The Tribune story was also re-broadcast on ABC Landline, a national program.

For those who missed it, check it out online www.abc.net.au/7.30/act/.