Paula Thompson BOP Regional Councillor www.envbop.govt.nz

As 2011 draws to a close, we can reflect on a year of catastrophic events. While many of us will be ‘winding down' and getting set to enjoy summer ‘down time' with family and friends, there are those for whom 2011 brought disaster and tragedy and for whom life has irrevocably altered.

The technology that allows the instantaneous sharing of graphic events and consequences also brings with it the choice to be affected and to care. My heros for 2011 are all those who have suffered – in ways that we can only imagine and to those who chose to care and did things, great and small, for others. The choice to care is a precious gift. Thanks to all those who made it in 2011.

I wish you all a happy Christmas and for us all and our world a year ahead in which more of us choose to care.