Hi all

Where to start ?

Like the majority of people on these forums, we have gone through the doubts, worries and anxieties associated with a massive change (Migration).

We still have a month to go until the departure gate, which I am not looking forward to one bit !!! Don't get me wrong, I can't wait for the family to start a new adventure in Caloundra, SC, but the departure is gonna be tough !

Got the rental sorted out in Pelican Waters and have the girls setup in Cal City School........ shall keep you all up to speed on the update forum.

Have read a lot on these forums about people feeling isolated and homesick - What we really wanted to say is : If there is anyone around the SC who needs a helping hand or someone to talk things through with, we will always be here - We are not Samaritans or anything like that but it's through helping others that you can actually help yourself - That's what these forums are all about (Apologies in advance if it sounds really corny - Definitely not intended that way)

See you at the arrival BBQ to be announced errrrmmmm when we arrive !

I would like to wish you all the best and I will be interested to hear how you get on. We are at the beginning of the process but we are aiming to head towards the GC we did look at SC but I guess it will depend where the jobs are. Im a secondary teacher and OH a joiner.

I am interested to see you have sorted out accom and schools prior to getting to Oz. Did you do a reccie to sort this out or have you done this from UK? These are onbviously everything which I am trying to fathem at the moment.

It is nice to see that so many people including yourselves offer advice. Good luck Nicky

Hi Nicky

No reccie, no relatives, no friends, no idea some may say !!!

We found some really cool people through this site and they even viewed our rental for us - We did use http://www.realestate.com.au/ for the rental and we managed to get a good deal (we think) - Obviously there are risks involved in this but if you find property in the SC, we wouldn't mind viewing it for you and also sending some realistic pictures (Not the ones they show in the sales pitch) and opinions about the area, schools, etc - All the really important stuff !

With regards to schools, we did loads of research as well as searching these forums for info - We got the application directly from the school and talked to the admin and voila - We land on Saturday and the girls have an appointment at the uniform shop on Monday - Yes they are very impressed at our efficiency

If you need any advice just PM me !

Take care and good luck

PS - We have noticed that people (Australians & expats) are WAY more willing to help others - Don't be afraid to ask ! Actually maybe that's a bit unfair - I think its also to do with the fact that people generally don't want to bother others with their difficulties but as migrants I don't think we have a choice - Just my 2cents !

Hello,

Just wanted to say good luck and to ask what SC is, not Silver Coast eh? ;-)

I looked and saw it's in Queensland, we're off to Sydney (hopefully - no definitely, just waiting).

Good luck anyway, and looking forward to reading your updates!

Heading to SC in 2 sleeps time with OH and 3 boys,unfortunately it is only for 3 weeks so that we can go evidence our visas.We have to arrive before the 18th March(or lose the 163) which last year seemed a long way off.But with a house and business to sell in this economic climate well say no more........we will settle in Sippy Downs nr.Mooloolaba which is right next door to Caloundra.So when we get there for good I may very well be seeking you out for a party!

Well that was a major disappointment!

I thought this thread was going to have a live link to Carole Vordeman and co!

On topic though, it would be tough if you know no one at all. Everyone I know who has emmigrated over here has had a friend or family member they could stay with for the first few weeks whiel you set up base.

Unfortunately, our lovely Sunshine Coast beaches are covered in oil at the moment from QLD's worst ever environmental disaster

Heh sorry I missed your PM barcafan......just got back from SC on Sunday after our 3 week trip......beaches all cleaned up but rain,rain,rain....the aussies never seem depressed about the weather so I guess us winging pomes have a lot to learn and many good sunny days ahead.......looking forward to a party in Caloundra when we return.....by christmas