ELCOME to 2023. Is this the year we finally say goodbye to COVID? Let’s hope so, but who knows? You’d have to be much more of a gambler than I am to speculate. Much has been written and said about how three tumultuous years of fires, floods and a pandemic have changed us all and galvanised us to cast off old habits and seek new, AG 170, and page 22 this issue). Thomas began his working life as a wharfie in Darwin (he still is); today he is also a powerful advocate for First Nations Australians and the need for a fair go for all Aussies, no matter who they are. Thomas will introduce us to a series of dedicated Indigenous community leaders throughout 2023. He spoke powerfully at the AG Awards in October 2022, receiving a five-minute standing ovation. On page 43 you can see more highlights of that special evening, where ordinary Aussies achieving extraordinary things were recognised.
