TAKE A BOW NORFOLK ISLAND

As much as Canberra would like to paint a picture of doom and gloom, and have us on our financial knees, this little island is doing remarkably well. The image of a busy, buzzing little community seems to persist.
In the past eight or nine days, there have been a number of fundraising functions. Last week we had the Easter Carnival, this weekend we have had a major Benefit night for local residents, a Car Wash and a Quiz night for the kids going to Tahiti, and a Fish/Fry entertainment evening for those raising funds to show hospitality for our Tahitian friends coming for Bounty. There has been a very successful "Shave for a Cure" at the Sports and Workers, and no doubt other functions and raffles.
I would say that conservatively speaking, well over $100 has been given in the "helping out" and "Inasmuch" spirit by every man, woman and child on this island on average in this period, and that does not include generous donations of prizes by individuals and businesses, and time given by entertainers and organisers.
Not that those attending these functions have not benefitted and had a good time too in return. But that is how it works here. You get out if life what you put in. It is called community spirit, and you should never underestimate the extent to which it keeps this island ticking over.
Much of our business community, too, is not only holding its own in the downturn, but doing well. Especially those who have taken the trouble to re-organise, brighten their premises, offer incentives, meet the needs of their customers, and maintain an optimistic outlook. I do believe we are in a better position to sustain ourselves than we would be under the mainland systems, where small businesses last an average of just 2 years in the best of circumstances! Our flexibility, our close relationship with our customers and market, and lack of red tape really works in our favour. Minister Lloyd actually warned people to hold off from investing in business here at a business luncheon in February. Glad to say his advice was ignored by many.
Norfolkers are travelling too...just go out to the airport any time and see who gets on and off the planes! That wasn't happening two or three decades ago. This weekend, the Markets were bustling, lots of locals were enjoying the pleasant autumn weather at Sports Venues, at the al fresco eating places, in their gardens, and carrying out DIY jobs on their homes. And if the seas were good, you can bet plenty of them were out fishing too.
I feel positive and confident about this place, and that is why I will keep speaking up to keep this island in control of its own future.