The lady in question, Lizzie Waddell, had stopped in Cooma, Cann River and Bombala at the time that her much loved cat, Tortie went missing, and she had no way of knowing where the elderly feline had jumped out of the car.

After six traumatic days of Lizzie searching for her pet with the generous help of locals, Tortie turned up again in Bombala, and the pair were reunited.

Lizzie encountered such generous community spirit and kindness in Bombala and the surrounding region during this time, that she wrote to us at the Times to express her appreciation.

Following is a piece that she prepared for the paper to convey her gratitude -

“Community trust and faith reigns in Bombala/Cann River and the Aussie spirit reigns – always help and never give up. The irony of things!  Statistics slammed with community support and connection.   

Thanks Bombala and Cann River for transforming my worry, angst and sick with worry into faith, trust, sharing, caring. A heartwarming and amazing lot of people that put their own lives aside to walk beside me in finding my 14 year old cat, Tortie.    

The Aussie tradition was ignited just simply by word of mouth. Communication action revealed the nature of the community.   

Strange how it all started with the roaming Forrester’s rabbit-interested golden retriever who’s family I rang to return home. Gill was to learn that I was in pursuit of my own dearly loved missing Tortie.   

Gill’s empathy to my overwhelming concern, charged her to connect in the community. My 14 year old, medicated, inside-living feline would not find her way back home – being a frequent traveller.     

Tortie escaped via the small gap in the window at either Cann River, Bombala or Cooma. It was not until I arrived home from Melbourne to start a shift immediately, that Tortie was identified as missing. That feeling of the unknown! Followed by a six day ordeal, bitter filled, sick with worry.

Travelling a 1500km round trip Cann River to Canberra set in motion a search that touched my heart. I found myself instinctively drawn back to Bombala. Searching under buildings around the Bakery and IGA with torch; scent from her canine friends; familiar bedding; watchful eyes of the community; the Baker Melissa’s food; watchful eyes and sightings; Gill’s and others’ sighting;  cuppas, food and beds and opening up of hearts was extended.      

Faith and trust rekindled by community spirit. Tremendous! Awesome! It all ended well.

Day 6 and many miles and beautiful people later, Tortie miraculously wandered past the very Pizza Café near where she escaped the car.

I am relieved and overwhelmed with thankfulness, grateful for support and blessed with the community spirit and universe power. People cared!  They really cared!

Gifts are blessings received in many ways, and the gift from Bombala and Cann River endure any loss and grieving.   

Peter Hickling (Cooma Ranger)  wrote:  “we are all very impressed with the dedication to a  much loved pet”.