Newsport journalist Jamie looks back on the story that most inspired her this year
End-of-year review
When you ask me about one of the most meaningful and inspiring stories I’ve written this year, this story comes to mind immediately.
I remember the day this story was produced very well. What seemed to be a typical working day at the office turned out to be a day that would teach me an important life lesson.
It was a busy day at the office and as the day was coming to an end I still had lots of tasks to cross off my to-do list.
As I was scrolling through the local Facebook Groups - something I do as part of my daily work tasks- I stumbled upon an unusual post. A local resident had seen a woman walking right next to the highway while pushing a pram.
The Facebook post had exploded with 107 comments from people being shocked about the risk this woman was taking and expressing their concerns. People raised questions about the pram, was there a baby or child in there?
I decided to leave my to-do list for what it was and jumped in the car on my way to Mossman, where the lady was spotted last.
It didn’t take long before I found her on the side of the road and when I walked over to have a chat I was greeted with a very friendly smile from Sarah Barnett who had already walked more than 30 kilometres that day.
Her story captivated me because of her determination and passion for nature and the environment.
Imagine walking from Adelaide to Cape Tribulation, doing 50 kilometres a day on worn out shoes to collect money for a charity that protects and restores land in the bush, farms, and urban areas of South Australia.
I can only have the uttermost respect for that and I hope many people will see her as an inspiration.
I hope this story will also end your year with a renewed sense of possibility and a fresh passion to do good in the world.
Read the full story about Sarah Barnett here.