OPINION: Gayndah journo's great year of growth

I have never written more words in my life than I have in 2018.

HIGHLIGHT: Capturing the Scottish Highland Cattle in Gayndah. Picture: Felicity Ripper

I HAVE never written more words in my life than I have in 2018, sharing your stories every day out of the Central and North Burnett Times' Gayndah office.

This, combined with learning about the strengths and challenges of the community I integrated into, means I have had a huge year in regards to personal growth.

I want to take this opportunity to thank those of you who have opened up to share your stories, especially when it was hard to do so, who pointed me in the right direction as I navigated my way around the North Burnett, and who have enjoyed reading my stories.

Highlights for me have been watching a rugby league game in it's entirety for the first time (and surprisingly enjoying it), learning to play touch football, capturing the character of Gayndah's furry Highland cows, and sharing my neighbour's beautiful love story with people right across Queensland.

The Central and North Burnett Times' offices will be closed from today until early January and while I'm looking forward to spending some quality time with my family I still want to hear about what you're up to so I can keep telling your stories in the new year.

If you have a great story idea from any of our towns you can send me an email at felicity.ripper@cnbtimes .com.au.

Enjoy a safe and happy Christmas with your loved ones!