I could write about how this year unfolded so differently to how we could have expected 12 months ago. Both locally and nationally. Not to mention internationally.

While 2020 will be remembered for the pandemic, border closures, business shutdowns and effect it had on our lives, Armidale has also had it's own interesting battles.

The council drama, which dominated local news this year, finally saw the remaining councillors return last week and a new mayor elected.

Meanwhile UNE announced changes to its residential system. Of course for the second half of 2020, news has focused on the restructure at the university.

But there were some more heart-warming stories over the last week.

The new bishop was announced for Armidale's Anglican diocese, and it was a former local.

Rod Chiswell grew up in Armidale during his teenage years while his father Peter Chiswell was Bishop.

We also saw the HSC results come in. While the top achievers are always the focus of the news coverage, which you can read here, I say well done to every student who has made it through to complete the HSC in 2020. Best of luck for the future.

Thanks for reading and have a great Christmas!