But the six weeks of lockdown already endured have also revealed many stories that have brought some light into our lives.

Pressed with the difficulty of isolation and restraint, the community has shown its true colours in its unstinting generosity, going out of its way to help neighbours and support businesses in new ways.

It is all the more extraordinary when so many people are existing on reduced or no income, when time may be plentiful but the mental duress of lockdown makes motivation all the more difficult.

Then there are people like Neil Para, who has essentially been living without income for several years. He is reliant on support from the community, left in limbo by the federal government and still uncertain of his family's future and safety.

Despite all this despondency is the last thing on his mind.

He has taken volunteering and model citizenship to the next level, reciprocating the generosity Ballarat has shown him.

Just one of the stories about our city to keep us hopeful in dark times.