She has ten years media expertise throughout Australia and the UK as journalist and sub-editor. The Australian tradition of mateship and unity was strengthened through the pandemic. Bird identified this as an increase in orientation towards local businesses – consumers’ need to assist their local people through local retailers. The firm launched numerous digital initiatives through the seven-week closure of its store network across Australia, New Zealand and Canada, together with virtual appointments, a WeChat ‘mini store’, shoppable Instagram feed, and a web-based video hub. Indeed, many jewellery retailers have been among those to access the JobKeeper program.

• Hill notes