The funeral service and burial was held at the Dark Corner cemetery on Thursday at 2pm. Light and dark chased each other across the tumbling hills that surrounded the quiet place. A small crowd of mourners stood near the bereaved, offering silent support and posies of early daffodils.

Headstones and simple slabs lay around as though asleep and the pastor’s words drifted away on the wind. Horses bucked and galloped in the distance, indifferent to the human world of pain and loss. A backhoe stood at a respectful distance, waiting to seal the fate of the dearly departed.

Later, at the wake in the village hall, beer and conversation flowed, mainly about the sad occasion but also about the unseasonable rain and unreasonable politics. Plates of chocolate brownies tempted even the saddest soul and cups of tea were available at the back-just ask Joan. A small cheeky boy plundered the plates of jam kisses and caramel squares.

Acquaintances became re-acquainted and friendships were sealed with another round of drinks. In the late afternoon soundless kangaroos hopped closer to the hall to nibble at the new shoots of grass. Families began to leave to feed their children and animals and fond goodbyes were said. A gentle spirit descended on the town like the mountain mist.