When I think about the most significant books of my childhood, the one that left the biggest impression is Oliver Twist, because it was one

of my dad’s favourite bedtime stories. Dad usually read the bit about Oliver asking for more, which he knew off by heart, and he continued the storytelling tradition with my son Harry. Author Vicki Wood also understands the importance of a good story in the life of a small child and has written a series of books for her young grandchildren. Their bedroom, in her Sunshine Coast home on page 30, looks as though it is straight from the pages of her latest book, The Viking Boy Chapter 2. “When my dad was 90, he told me about his grandma — stories she used to tell him and songs she used to sing,” says Vicki. “She passed away when he was three, so the impact it had on him at such a young age was incredible. I wanted my grandchildren to remember me.” A steady stream of books came my way from my grandmother, but one of my fondest memories is of Nanna providing regular updates on the progress of “aunty Anne’s Christmas pudding”, which was sent through the post each year in the lead up to the holidays. Eagerly awaited, its arrival was a very important part of our family Christmas celebration. My mum has written a story about it, which you’ll find — along with the recipe — on page 80. Fingers crossed, I will manage to make it myself this year! Also in this issue is our Top 50 — a list of the people, places, events and organisations who have made their mark on regional Australia in 2017. “Putting together this list of the country’s high achievers and community-minded contributors was an awe-inspiring and fairly humbling experience,” says Melbourne editor Virginia Imhoff. “The depth and breadth of talent and commitment out there in the bush is amazing — from those intent on keeping their communities strong to high-jumping kelpies.” There are certainly lots of inspiring stories out there.

Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas,