At the same time, I have been out in the Redfern community investigating coronavirus or COVID-19, for a special Living Black episode that goes to air tonight.
The strain of juggling personal concerns, with the weight of information I learn on the job has been quite a challenge. On occasions the pressure has bought tears to my eyes.
Karla Grant with her mother Elizabeth and three children, Lowanna, John (left) and Dylan (right).
Source: Karla Grant
This virus has halted life as we know it. It has touched all our lives, at home and work.
At my workplace, virtually everyone at NITV is either working on COVID-19 related content, or they are having to adjust ‘business as usual’ to accommodate COVID-19.
With incredible support from my colleagues, I have carried on working as normally as I can muster under these strained circumstances. The toll has been emotionally and physically draining.
My team and I have all discussed the risks we face of catching COVID-19 while filming and editing this Living Black episode.
We’re all mindful, we are putting our lives at risk in order to produce this story. We all have families at home.
Driving us on is the need to report on how the Indigenous community is being impacted by this killer virus. Our people and communities need to know the seriousness of the crisis and what precautions they need to take to keep themselves, their families and their Elders safe.
I am forever grateful to my team for their dedication, for risking their lives to produce this important episode.
I only hope this special episode on COVID-19 sheds light on the dangers of the virus, how it is impacting the world and most importantly, our own backyard.
And while the last week and a half has tested me, I smiled on the final day of shooting.
I was lucky enough to see my Mum and hear her say ‘I love you Karla’.
It was from a distance, in line with social distancing of course, but it was the most moving and touching moment to see the smile on my Mum’s face, to talk to her and to know that she is doing okay.
For me, distance does make the heart grow fonder.
Watch Living Black – Covid19 Special on SBS On Demand.
Living Black can be viewed on on NITV (Ch.34) Monday 30 March at 8.30pm, Wednesday 1 April at 9:30pm and will be available On Demand after the broadcast.
AuntyUta 
Australia has a huge challenge and seems – at last – to be facing up to the legacy of how badly its indigenous people have been treated in the past. I hope Australians can learn from the mistakes of others and find an equitable and peaceful solution. COVID-19 seems to be bringing a lot to light.
It is a huge challenge, indeed, Catterel. Thanks for commenting! 🙂