Living in Geelong but homesick
Jan 6th 2006, 12:31 am
#1
Hussy
Thread Starter
Joined: Feb 2003
Location: Australia...for now
Posts: 1,035
Living in Geelong
Hi everyone
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
Last edited by mika24me; Jan 6th 2006 at 12:52 am.
Jan 6th 2006, 12:54 am
#2
The Godfather
Joined: Feb 2004
Location: South East Suburbs of Melbourne
Posts: 7,336
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by mika24me
Hi everyone
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
Hi Mel,
Theres been a few questions about Geelong on the Britvics site recently. Seems to be a few familys heading that way in 2006.
Jan 6th 2006, 1:04 am
#3
Forum Regular
Joined: Sep 2005
Location: Perth-for now!!
Posts: 248
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by mika24me
Hi everyone
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
Hi Mel
We are also from Scotland (Falkirk)-which part are you from? Very interesting post-you have been very busy ,what with the babies and all
We are hoping to be in Oz - Perth- around July this year,still waiting on Visa's- cant stand all this waiting-it drives me nuts
Well, Mel, I know you are feeling a bit homesick right now and I suppose certain things will make you feel like that (Corrie!!) but let me assure you that you are not missing much!! Right now it is freezing,electricity and gas prices are going UP!,council tax is going UP,crime is UP(eg more drunk drivers this year than last),more teenage binge drinking,........I could go on and on....
I guess when you are homesick it is more to do with family and friends though so perhaps these things wont matter so much.
Anyway good post and I hope your homesickness fades but if not a wee visit home I am sure would sort that out
Marlyn
Jan 6th 2006, 1:16 am
#4
Hussy
Thread Starter
Joined: Feb 2003
Location: Australia...for now
Posts: 1,035
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by ozzymaz
Hi Mel
We are also from Scotland (Falkirk)-which part are you from? Very interesting post-you have been very busy ,what with the babies and all
We are hoping to be in Oz - Perth- around July this year,still waiting on Visa's- cant stand all this waiting-it drives me nuts
Well, Mel, I know you are feeling a bit homesick right now and I suppose certain things will make you feel like that (Corrie!!) but let me assure you that you are not missing much!! Right now it is freezing,electricity and gas prices are going UP!,council tax is going UP,crime is UP(eg more drunk drivers this year than last),more teenage binge drinking,........I could go on and on....
I guess when you are homesick it is more to do with family and friends though so perhaps these things wont matter so much.
Anyway good post and I hope your homesickness fades but if not a wee visit home I am sure would sort that out
Marlyn
We are also from Scotland (Falkirk)-which part are you from? Very interesting post-you have been very busy ,what with the babies and all
We are hoping to be in Oz - Perth- around July this year,still waiting on Visa's- cant stand all this waiting-it drives me nuts
Well, Mel, I know you are feeling a bit homesick right now and I suppose certain things will make you feel like that (Corrie!!) but let me assure you that you are not missing much!! Right now it is freezing,electricity and gas prices are going UP!,council tax is going UP,crime is UP(eg more drunk drivers this year than last),more teenage binge drinking,........I could go on and on....
I guess when you are homesick it is more to do with family and friends though so perhaps these things wont matter so much.
Anyway good post and I hope your homesickness fades but if not a wee visit home I am sure would sort that out
Marlyn
we are from Caithness originally but lived in Glasgow for the last two years we were in Scotland. Yes I am missing family, but the main reason I am homesick is for the familiarity of the place. Think of Australia like a beautiful stiletto. You love putting it on and wearing it, but at the end of the day you pop on your slippers to get comefortable. Scotland I guess is my pair of old slippers! But everyone is different.
I know how you feel about waiting for the visas. Our wait was quicker than most (got our visa in 3 months, not sure why! Something to do with reaching the years quotas, they rushed a few of us through!) And evern at that it was like waiting to be born. I felt that I couldnt; get on with life until I had a decision one way or another. I hope you get your visa soon. A friend of mine has just moved to Perth and she loves it. I am hoping to visit her in the next year or so.
Crime, yes. I know there is a lot in Britain, There is a lot in Australia too. And there are bills to pay, and complaints about the government. I have come to realise that these things will be there no matter where you are. These are not the reasons for leaving one country or another. Australia has a lot of good points, and I think these should factor into the decision more than the mythical low crime rate.
mel
Jan 6th 2006, 1:16 am
#5
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Oct 2005
Location: Mandurah Perth
Posts: 366
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by mika24me
Hi everyone
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
Hi Mel
Happy New Year
From Scotland myself and dont think there is anywhere as beautiful as Scotland.
Moving to Bunbury near Perth in may with my dogs Harvey and Timmy (oh and my other half John).
How did Mika adjust to the different climate.
Harvey and Timmy are border collies so have a thick coat and I'm a wee bit worried about the heat.
What type of dog is Mika.
Beth
Jan 6th 2006, 1:23 am
#6
Hussy
Thread Starter
Joined: Feb 2003
Location: Australia...for now
Posts: 1,035
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by zbettyboop
Hi Mel
Happy New Year
From Scotland myself and dont think there is anywhere as beautiful as Scotland.
Moving to Bunbury near Perth in may with my dogs Harvey and Timmy (oh and my other half John).
How did Mika adjust to the different climate.
Harvey and Timmy are border collies so have a thick coat and I'm a wee bit worried about the heat.
What type of dog is Mika.
Beth
Happy New Year
From Scotland myself and dont think there is anywhere as beautiful as Scotland.
Moving to Bunbury near Perth in may with my dogs Harvey and Timmy (oh and my other half John).
How did Mika adjust to the different climate.
Harvey and Timmy are border collies so have a thick coat and I'm a wee bit worried about the heat.
What type of dog is Mika.
Beth
Not sure about WA but in VIC you have to watch where you take your dog as certain areas (beaches etc) are dog free during peak summer season, and at other times vary between you haveing to have your dog on a leash, and just having to have them under control. There are lots of areas you can have your dog off the leash all year round, you just have to search a little to find where they are.
When you get the out of quarantine take them to the vets straight away and ask about heartworm protection. Not all areas are affected by this (I think it is a parasite) but some are and if you are takign them into a heartworm area best to get them protected. It is only one cheap vacination once a year and well worth it in my opinion.
Good luck
Mel
PS prepare for your dogs to be in the huff with you for a little while when you pick them up from quarantine, ours certainly was!
Jan 6th 2006, 4:56 am
#7
Victorian Evangelist
Joined: Sep 2005
Location: Melbourne, by the beach, living the dream.
Posts: 7,704
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by mika24me
Not sure about WA but in VIC you have to watch where you take your dog as certain areas (beaches etc) are dog free during peak summer season,
Could you tell me, are all VIC beaches dog free 24 hours a day in the summer? I have this dream of taking the dog for a run along the beach early in the morning before work, while the beach is still quiet.
Would hate to get arrested by the early morning dog patrol!
Cheers
Buzzy
Jan 6th 2006, 4:57 am
#8
.
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 21,374
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by Buzzy--Bee
Hi Mel, and thanks for your post.
Could you tell me, are all VIC beaches dog free 24 hours a day in the summer? I have this dream of taking the dog for a run along the beach early in the morning before work, while the beach is still quiet.
Would hate to get arrested by the early morning dog patrol!
Cheers
Buzzy
Could you tell me, are all VIC beaches dog free 24 hours a day in the summer? I have this dream of taking the dog for a run along the beach early in the morning before work, while the beach is still quiet.
Would hate to get arrested by the early morning dog patrol!
Cheers
Buzzy
Jan 6th 2006, 5:05 am
#9
Victorian Evangelist
Joined: Sep 2005
Location: Melbourne, by the beach, living the dream.
Posts: 7,704
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by fraser
No
Cheers
Buzzy
Jan 6th 2006, 8:05 am
#10
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: Port Kennedy
Posts: 482
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by ozzymaz
Hi Mel
We are also from Scotland (Falkirk)-which part are you from? Very interesting post-you have been very busy ,what with the babies and all
We are hoping to be in Oz - Perth- around July this year,still waiting on Visa's- cant stand all this waiting-it drives me nuts
Well, Mel, I know you are feeling a bit homesick right now and I suppose certain things will make you feel like that (Corrie!!) but let me assure you that you are not missing much!! Right now it is freezing,electricity and gas prices are going UP!,council tax is going UP,crime is UP(eg more drunk drivers this year than last),more teenage binge drinking,........I could go on and on....
I guess when you are homesick it is more to do with family and friends though so perhaps these things wont matter so much.
Anyway good post and I hope your homesickness fades but if not a wee visit home I am sure would sort that out
Marlyn
We are also from Scotland (Falkirk)-which part are you from? Very interesting post-you have been very busy ,what with the babies and all
We are hoping to be in Oz - Perth- around July this year,still waiting on Visa's- cant stand all this waiting-it drives me nuts
Well, Mel, I know you are feeling a bit homesick right now and I suppose certain things will make you feel like that (Corrie!!) but let me assure you that you are not missing much!! Right now it is freezing,electricity and gas prices are going UP!,council tax is going UP,crime is UP(eg more drunk drivers this year than last),more teenage binge drinking,........I could go on and on....
I guess when you are homesick it is more to do with family and friends though so perhaps these things wont matter so much.
Anyway good post and I hope your homesickness fades but if not a wee visit home I am sure would sort that out
Marlyn
And to the original poster Scotland is not the same lately even with Coronation Street lol but great post!
Is the tax thing as bad as i have heard about?
Last edited by clanwylie; Jan 6th 2006 at 8:07 am.
Jan 6th 2006, 9:02 am
#11
Forum Regular
Joined: Mar 2005
Location: Aberdeen, UK
Posts: 172
Re: Living in Geelong but homesick
Hi Mel
My husband and I have been in Geelong 3 months now. Know what you mean about the stilletto bit !! We had a good life in Aberdeen but wanted to come to Australia for the adventure. Not sure if it's going to be permanent or not but no regrets..........you'll never know unless you try !
Where are you in Geelong?
Judy
My husband and I have been in Geelong 3 months now. Know what you mean about the stilletto bit !! We had a good life in Aberdeen but wanted to come to Australia for the adventure. Not sure if it's going to be permanent or not but no regrets..........you'll never know unless you try !
Where are you in Geelong?
Judy
Jan 6th 2006, 9:33 am
#12
Migration Agent
Joined: May 2002
Location: Offices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Geelong (Australia), and Southampton (UK)
Posts: 6,459
Re: Living in Geelong but homesick
I have been exchanging emails with one of the posters on my forum (www.gomatildaforums.com - forgive the shameless plug) about having a Geelong get together ... as you may know my family and I live in Geelong as well.
Send me an email if you are interested and I'll start putting together a list of names, perhaps with a view to having some food and drink next month ...
Best wishes.
Send me an email if you are interested and I'll start putting together a list of names, perhaps with a view to having some food and drink next month ...
Best wishes.
Jan 6th 2006, 9:34 am
#13
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Nov 2003
Location: Scotland
Posts: 7,949
Re: Living in Geelong but homesick
I come from Melbourne originally but live in Scotland now (returning to Oz sometime in the future and might return to Scotland and some point after that!) I can appreciate your homesickness and missing the familiarity of home. When you are enjoying another Scottish winter you can look at these photos of a Geelong winter (taken July '05) to remember how 'bad' you had it there.
OzTennis
OzTennis
Jan 6th 2006, 9:35 am
#14
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 313
Re: Living in Geelong
Originally Posted by mika24me
Hi everyone
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
I have not posted regularly on this site for over two years, so I shall start by introducing myself.
My name is Mel, and I am married to Ian. We emigrated from Scotland to Australia just over two years ago, and have settled in Geelong, Vic. Since arriving here we have had two children Ally, 16 months, and Monty, one month. We also have a dog, Mika, who came with us from Scotland.
We are going to take our citizenship interview in a few weeks and are in the process of building a house, which should be ready in a few months. We have been renting since we got here and are keen to be in our own house again!
My husband has never settled in here. He enjoys the hot days, but misses the green grass in Britain, the close proximity to mainland Europe, and the feeling of not being foreign. Also the scenery here is not a patch on what we left behind, although I'm sure many would disagree with us. Iguess you like best what you have grown up with.
I felt very much at home until a few weeks ago when my mum sent me a video of Coronation Street (the episodes leading up to and including Status Quo playing at Les Battersby's wedding). Now I am also longing to feel at home again, and missing the familiarity of Britain. I didn't realise how much I missed it! We are going to stay here for a few more years at least, and then take a holiday back home to see if our reasons for leaving are still there, and if not we will go back.
But the reason I am posting on this thread and not the moving back to the UK one is that I thought I could be helpful for people not sure about making the move. I love Australia and it's people, so will not be derogatory, just honest. Also if anyone has any specific questions about Geelong, or had not considered moving outside of the capital cities, then ask away, any questions at all. My hubby is self employed and I do his paperwork, so am quite familiar with the Aussie tax office, so any questions about that will be welcome.
Also any questions about the actual moving process, for example what to take, what to leave behind. Whether or not to take your pet (we did), etc. I hope I can be of help to some people. And hopefully posting back on this site will help me decide if I should stay or go.
Mel
We're in Qld from Scotland also Mel. We have a neighbour who is a psychologist. He recently told us that that it takes the brain and body at least two years to come to terms with emigration. Believe that or not, but in the days of the ten pound pom they took people's passports from them, in the knowledge that this was the most vulnerable time for emigrants to change their minds. Oz authorities then made emigrants on the ten pound scheme stump up their fares (to and from) back to Blighty who chose to leave before the two years were up. You have been through so much, having two babies in the past two years, you are bound to be more emotional than most. If you feel that where you are is not for you, can you not move and try another area of Oz. before making such a big move?
Best Wishes
BB
Jan 6th 2006, 9:47 am
#15
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Nov 2003
Location: Scotland
Posts: 7,949
Re: Living in Geelong but homesick
My experiences echo what the 'trick cyclist' suggests. I've been through the missing home badly phase and come out the other side. I could happily live in either Scotland or Oz. One thing for sure is that which ever one you choose, you will have spells of missing the other.
Some more Eastern Beach, Geelong pics FWIW (look at those people dining 'al fresco' in winter)
OzTennis
Some more Eastern Beach, Geelong pics FWIW (look at those people dining 'al fresco' in winter)
OzTennis
