Are we happy? Are we proud? Do we feel the future is bright?

Perhaps today more than ever we should look at our kids, our neighbour’s kids or our friends’ kids. Let’s spend some time investing in them by listening to them, playing with them and hugging them.

They are luckier than most to be children in this country where they are, generally speaking, safer, healthier and happier than elsewhere. And then let’s think of those who do not have what we have. And remind ourselves that the path to unhappiness lies in wanting what we cannot have, rather than appreciating and enjoying what we have got.

Perhaps in this way we can truly Advance Australia Fair.

Patrotism was clearly displayed around the region yesterday with the various Australia Day events. We celebrated the achievements of many, including tireless Port Fairy sporting identity Wally Sheehan and Camperdown GP John Menzies, who received national recognition.

Awards to many at council events were much deserved because without community champions like those, our region would be worse off.

But not every deed or achievement needs an award.

Warrnambool’s Jodie Fleming, who has written a book detailing her emotional journey from doctor to patient after twice being diagnosed with breast cancer, is a shining example. Her story is raw, confronting, yet inspiring.

I have a copy of her book A Hole In My Genes to give away. The first subscriber to send me an email with the subject line BOOK GIVEAWAY will receive the book ahead of next week’s launch.

And in keeping with the Aussie spirit theme, one of our city’s most inspiring entrepreneurs, the late Sir Fletcher Jones, would be proud of today’s special event in the gardens at his former textile factory. A community group passionate about retaining our social history and heritage has driven a project that, in what is believed to be a world-first, 3D printing tenchology has been used to re-create an iconic statue in the Fletcher Jones gardens. The statue will be lit up tonight at a celebration that underlines not only The Standard’s motto but your approach to living in the south-west: COMMUNITY MATTERS.

Here’s a selection of stories to kick-start your day.