EDITOR’S LETTER:
from the desk of The Weekly’s Nicole Byers
It’s that time of year when we inevitably reflect on our lives, the year that was, and the things that are most important to us. For me 2018 was all about challenging myself in a demanding but rewarding new job (as Editor-in-Chief of this wonderful publication) and learning how to juggle that with my other treasured roles of mother, daughter, sister, friend and wife (not always successfully!)
In our first issue of the new year we check in with several prominent Australians to find out what 2018 held for them – the highs, the lows and everything in between.
For Grant Denyer and his wife Chezzi it was a year of hard work, fresh farm air and thankfulness. With the dark days behind them, and a shiny new Gold Logie, Grant is dubbing it his best year ever (see page 14).
While the always-inspiring Turia Pitt describes 2018 as her most memorable.
She tells how the arrival of son Hakavai opened her eyes to the joys of motherhood, and all the unexpected changes that brings to your life (see page 60).
We go poolside with Michelle Bridges and her role model, mum Maureen, as they gently remind us of the importance of making health and fitness a priority in 2019 (see page 86). I’m listening!
MP Julia Banks opens up about her explosive move to cross the floor and stand up to what she calls the “bully boys” of the Liberal Party (see page 30). After such a tumultuous year, here’s hoping politicians on all sides can do better in 2019.
Australia certainly wasn’t alone when it came to political upheaval, with the Trump circus providing an endless stream of scandals, spats and controversy.
Two years after leaving the White House, Michelle Obama reflects on her time as first lady, marriage to Barack and the impossibility of having it all (see page 70).
For tennis champ Jelena Dokic, 2018 was the year her life turned around completely (see page 42). She tells how finding the courage to go public about the abuse she suffered at the hands of her father gave her the freedom to truly be happy.
For you and yours I hope 2019 will be a year of new adventures, shared joys and the making of many great memories.
Happy New Year.