It should not in any way stop us being a tolerant, open and free country and the last thing we need is to become more polarised and angry at any particular segment of our population.

We are truly fortunate in our regional area to be able walk down the street without looking over our backs and hopefully it stays like that for a long time.

Our political leaders need to do more on the world stage to be tolerant and understanding of all the disenfranchised and try to get to the bottom of what is making people lose all sense of decency and humanity.

One local example of how all of us, whatever race or religion, can get along was the Narooma Christmas carols where people from all backgrounds and ancestry get together each year to celebrate the holidays.

Well done to all the organisers and performers!