At time when I have been warned that I could be a target for being identified as a health worker, I just want to say that is NOT my experience living here.

Instead I would just like to say a huge thank you for the overwhelming support the Bellingen community has given the local doctors and medical teams here for setting up an independent COVID drive through clinic at the previous Watson Street Bellorana facility.

My husband Dr Derek Bell and I have lived and worked in this close-knit community for seven years and the reality is a lot of people will know who we are. The same can be said for many of the health workers here, if not most.

When I go into town I don't try to hide who I am and I have always felt safe. Often I am asked questions about the corona virus which I am happy to answer.

We know that you trust all of us to give you honest, frank and considered advice, to go above and beyond in setting up this clinic, and to keep you as safe as we possibly can through this pandemic.

The words of thanks, flowers, and the sign some kind person left for us at the clinic has truly touched us. You give us and our families a beautiful, nurturing and thoughtful community in which to thrive despite the stressors of this time.

So, again, thank you for your support and kindness to us, to your neighbours and to your community. Thank you, Bellingen Shire - you never cease to amaze me!

Dr Olivia Bell, Bellingen