Letter to the Editor

When a Community Grieves
(The Editor, “The Times”)

Dear Editor.– There are moments in the life of every community that leave a lasting mark. Moments when ordinary routines stop, conversations change, and people struggle to find the right words.

In recent weeks, our shire has experienced one of those moments with the heartbreaking loss of Layla Jeffery. Her death has deeply affected her family, her friends, the Donald community and, indeed, people across Buloke. At the heart of our thoughts remain those who loved her most and who continue to face an unimaginable loss.

In a rural community, grief rarely belongs to one family alone. We know the people involved. We know their neighbours, classmates, workmates, sporting clubs and the many others whose lives have been touched. When tragedy strikes, its impact ripples well beyond those at its centre.

Yet, in times like these, we also see the very best of our communities. We see neighbours quietly checking in on one another. We see volunteers stepping forward, emergency workers carrying out difficult tasks with professionalism and compassion, and countless small acts of kindness that often go unseen.

These moments remind us that community is not defined only by the good times we share, but also by how we stand beside one another when life is at its hardest.

Everyone experiences grief differently. Some people find comfort in talking, while others need time and quiet reflection. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, and there is no timetable for healing. What matters is that we allow one another the space to mourn in our own way, while continuing to offer support without expectation.

One lesson I have learned through community service is that the smallest gestures often matter most. A phone call, a meal left at the door, an offer to help, or simply sitting with someone without feeling the need to fill every silence can make an enormous difference. These acts remind people they are not carrying their burden alone.

As a community, we cannot change what has happened. What we can do is choose how we respond – with kindness, patience and compassion, not only today, but in the weeks and months ahead. In remembering Layla, may we also remember our shared responsibility to care for those who are hurting and to continue building the kind of community where no one feels they have to face grief alone.

If there is one thing worth holding on to, it is this: a caring community is not defined by the absence of tragedy, but by the way its people stand beside one another when tragedy occurs.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this column are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views or position of Buloke Shire Council.

Cr Bruce Stafford,
Lower Avoca Ward,
Buloke Shire Council