Morrison proud of resilient Aussies

SCOTT Morrison says he has never felt more proud of his country as this “incredibly tough year” comes to a close.

After the devastating black summer bushfires and the coronavirus pandemic wreaked havoc across the nation, the Prime Minister on Saturday opened up about the “many moments of sadness”.

“Australians will never forget all of those who serve so valiantly, our volunteer firefighters, and what they did for us during our black summer,” Mr Morrison (pictured) said.

“I have never felt more proud of Australia as we draw to the end of this terrible year than I do now.”

Speaking at the opening of a memorial park for NSW volunteer firefighters Geoff Keaton and Andrew O’Dwyer, who died when their truck overturned near Buxton, southwest of Sydney, last year, Mr Morrison gave a touching trib bute to the y young fathers. “I feel sad for the loss … but also I’m reaching out to that joy that is there for all of us to take in this wonderful playground,” he said.

“A place of pride, pride and the selflessness of Geoff and Andrew, pride in the brigade and the community who have rallied here together.

“Children can heal us in a way that we can never understand or explain, and so this place will be a place of healing.

“It will be a place of peace, of quiet reflection.”

Mr Morrison said he prayed “laughter and joy” would be found again in the lives of all of those affected.

“Christmas this year I’m sure will be difficult,” he said.

“There will be grief, but also hopefully the joy of the wonderful message of Christmas for all of you.”