The hay came courtesy of the Rapid Relief Team (RRT), which is the charity arm of the Plymouth Brethren Church.

It was like a military operation to bring that hay from Tasmania across the Bass Strait and then to carry it on to Goulburn by 13 semi-trailers. 

The amount of money the RRT has raised is astounding; over $3 million in four weeks, with which they have purchased $1.5 million worth of hay.

Such coordination shows what can happen when people band together to help their fellow countrymen and women.

Even then, some graziers expressed guilt about collecting the hay, saying others were worse off. It’s typical of country people but they are thoroughly deserving in such a tough time.

The day was a highly emotional one that brought welcome relief and the best out in everyone. Well done to all concerned.

Mayor Bob Kirk is unlikely to be opposed in his tilt at the top job on Tuesday night.

He has led a largely cohesive council over the past two years and before that, performed capably as Deputy Mayor.

Goulburn Mulwaree is ticking along nicely, with plenty more possibilities in the wind, thanks in no small part to the Mayor’s and general manager’s advocacy on many fronts.

Almost every councillor to whom the Post spoke on Friday wanted to see these projects through. 

There’s no denying the growth but just as importantly, councillors must become more transparent in decision making.

Most of the discussion now takes place in closed briefing sessions, with debate kept to a minimum at meetings. The community surely deserves better.