For those who don't work in healthcare or retail (or any kind of weekend or shift work), it's four days off to enjoy good food, good company, head to church for those who celebrate, or get away for a few days.

Now for me, Easter is a little different. In the latest Voice of Real Australia newsletter, I spoke about growing up Greek Orthodox and what Easter means to me.

Easter holds a special place in my heart. I love attending church during the Easter period and I love what it represents; sacrifice, resurrection and hope.

From a religious point of view, Easter is about the death and resurrection of Christ. It's about new beginnings, and hope.

And really, when you think about it, we could all benefit from a new beginning.

The last few years have been tough on all of us. We've had droughts, bushfires, floods, COVID, and war. Now more than ever, we need to hold on to hope and start afresh.

Here's hoping the Easter long weekend has provided all with a reminder of the value of family and loved ones - not just for special occasions, but year-round.

No matter what faith you belong to, or even if you don't belong to any - I hope you have taken the time to spend the Easter break with your family and friends, eaten good food, laughed and enjoyed a well-earned break.

More importantly here's hoping the Easter weekend has provided all with a reminder of the value of family and loved ones - not just for special occasions, but year-round.

Hold the ones you love close, savour the highlights in life and let's look to the future with new hope.

Furthermore keep an eye out for the positives in life. We have celebrated several in recent weeks including a special resilience award for Taralga Show Society and the opening of Goulburn's new respite cottage for carers.

Here's hoping for a bright future,

Vera Demertzis

ACM journalist