The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact across the nation and across the world.
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Lives lost, many left seriously ill and the substantial impact on businesses and, ultimately, jobs have made this a calamitous moment in history.
We still have some way to go, even as Australia - having performed better than most in containing the highly infectious disease - begins to wind-back restrictions.
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An unusual plus out of what has been a worrisome time for all communities has been one that certainly would not have been expected.
And that is that bikes are back, not that these ever went away - weekend packs of amateur cyclists are a common sight on Border roads and kids are always getting about on their treadlies.
But the uptake right across the nation, bolstered by people wanting and needing to get out and exercise in a fun way that can involve the whole family, has been significant.
It's certainly been a big positive for a healthier community and a welcome respite from the constant bad news about the coronavirus pandemic.
While not connected to this current boon in bikes, a project now being undertaken by Albury Council will nevertheless aid in making cycling safer.
The planning has gone public, with projects boss Andrew Lawson spelling out a planned new bike loop for central Albury that incorporates Melbourne CBD-style hook turns for cyclists at intersections.
The clear safety benefit is getting cyclists out of the danger zone at the middle of an intersection.
The proposal has got to have some merit, by at the very least making it safer for cyclists.
Deputy mayor Amanda Cohn has pointed out how "frightening" it can be for cyclists doing a mid-intersection turn, though colleague Darren Cameron had his doubts.
Confusing is how he put it, which is a bit confusing in itself given that an ongoing education campaign should make this a simple progression, as will watching other cyclists do the right thing.
It's worth the effort, given how easily a life can now be lost.