A year later in Melbourne
Nov 25th 2006, 11:52 am
#1
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: Waterways, Victoria
Posts: 192
A year later in Melbourne
Well almost...... our anniversary is on 30th November really, but haven't posted for a while, so thought I would put fingers on keys. Switch off now if you get bored by long posts !
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosen school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn't look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking so that was good.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things which makes life easier.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosen school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn't look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking so that was good.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things which makes life easier.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
Last edited by Izzy; Nov 25th 2006 at 12:05 pm.
Nov 25th 2006, 12:02 pm
#2
Fighting my corner
Joined: Aug 2005
Location: Adelaide, South Australia
Posts: 11,948
Re: A year later in Melbourne
A good honest, no-frills post. Nice one!
Terrific photos, too.
Terrific photos, too.
Nov 25th 2006, 12:03 pm
#3
A rather curious boy
Joined: Aug 2006
Location: Melbourne
Posts: 5,917
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Fabulous...well done to you for sticking it out on the bad days (I remember that post).
Wishing you continued success in your new life.
Wishing you continued success in your new life.
Nov 25th 2006, 12:05 pm
#4
BE Forum Addict
Joined: Feb 2006
Location: In an ice box
Posts: 2,969
Re: A year later in Melbourne
lovely post, really enjoyed reading it, hope things carry on going well for you & your family.
liked the pics too.
liked the pics too.
Nov 25th 2006, 12:06 pm
#5
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 4,918
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Originally Posted by Izzy
Well almost...... our anniversary is on 30th November really, but haven't posted for a while, so thought I would fingers on keys. Switch off now if you get bored by long posts !
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosed school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn;t look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - Port Phillip Bay, sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosed school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn;t look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - Port Phillip Bay, sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
from one Issie to another....fantastic your living the dream ...go girl xx
Nov 25th 2006, 12:07 pm
#6
Forum Regular
Thread Starter
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: Waterways, Victoria
Posts: 192
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Thanks !
Nov 25th 2006, 1:01 pm
#7
Lost in BE Cyberspace
Joined: Jun 2005
Location: Oz -> UK -> San Diego
Posts: 9,912
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Thanks for sharing - I love hearing how people are getting on!
Nov 25th 2006, 1:09 pm
#8
Forum Regular
Joined: Oct 2006
Location: Hertfordshire now in Melbourne
Posts: 228
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Great post, very interesting to read an honest opinion of almost a year in Melbourne. We are hoping, praying and all fingers crossed that we can migrate to Melbourne as well later in 2007, after only recently submitting our visa application back in October. Thanks for taking the time to explain how things have gone for your family, and my wife loves the idea of horse riding as she owned many horses before we started a family around 9 yrs ago and would love the chance to start again, lovely pics...
I hope you continue with your dream and I can assure you it's alot better than the UK, as it's changing all the time over here and sadly I think for the worse!!!!.
We did spend 6-wks in Melbourne last Xmas with a few cousins staying in North Essendon, and had an unbelievable time and also visited Sydney, Gold Coast and finally the Whitsundays as part of our travels, and it was amazing... Roll on next year if we get a positive result !!!!!!!!!!
Cheers
Russell & Sarah
I hope you continue with your dream and I can assure you it's alot better than the UK, as it's changing all the time over here and sadly I think for the worse!!!!.
We did spend 6-wks in Melbourne last Xmas with a few cousins staying in North Essendon, and had an unbelievable time and also visited Sydney, Gold Coast and finally the Whitsundays as part of our travels, and it was amazing... Roll on next year if we get a positive result !!!!!!!!!!
Cheers
Russell & Sarah
Nov 25th 2006, 1:14 pm
#9
BE Enthusiast
Joined: Jul 2005
Location: Living in and loving Seaford Rise
Posts: 538
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Great post Izzy! Keep posting - Glad to hear that you are feeling better 
Lindsey
Lindsey
Nov 25th 2006, 1:18 pm
#10
Forum Regular
Joined: Apr 2006
Location: doncaster, south yorkshire
Posts: 178
Re: A year later in Melbourne
[Wow!!!!!
I remember reading the post 'what do u do when u can't stop crying',- we were just thinking of the idea of moving to australia and had only just discovered BE site.
Its fantastic that things have turned out good for you and u are all happy.
That really has put a smile on my face.
Hope you all have many more years enjoying it over there.
xxxxxx
I remember reading the post 'what do u do when u can't stop crying',- we were just thinking of the idea of moving to australia and had only just discovered BE site.
Its fantastic that things have turned out good for you and u are all happy.
That really has put a smile on my face.
Hope you all have many more years enjoying it over there.
xxxxxx
Nov 25th 2006, 3:46 pm
#11
visa holder
Joined: Jan 2006
Location: Thornlands, Bayside
Posts: 1,964
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Great post, thanks for taking the time to write it. We are hoping to have a look at Melbourne next October.
Gorgeous horse. Hope you continue to enjoy life in Oz.
Joex
Gorgeous horse. Hope you continue to enjoy life in Oz.
Joex
Nov 25th 2006, 10:21 pm
#12
Forum Regular
Joined: Feb 2006
Location: Vicky Point, Brisbane QLD
Posts: 148
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Originally Posted by Izzy
Well almost...... our anniversary is on 30th November really, but haven't posted for a while, so thought I would put fingers on keys. Switch off now if you get bored by long posts !
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosen school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn't look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking so that was good.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things which makes life easier.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
Accommodation
We spent our first two weeks in a serviced apartment in Patterson Lakes overlooking the marina. We arrived just as summer began and so had 4 months of fabulous weather. We found a rental in Sandhurst that was brand new and signed up for 12 months. In hindsight, we panicked a little what with Christmas being around the corner etc. the house is gorgeous but just too far away from our chosen school etc, so I spend a lot of time driving. We put a deposit on a block of land in July and hope to get the title deeds by the end of the year so we can start building in January
Jobs
Hubby is a bricklayer and didn't look for work until after New Year. The construction industry seems to shut down until about the 3rd week in january, so there was not much about but he managed to get a job. He is now working for himself as a subcontractor for one of the main housebuilders. As the commonwealth games were held here this year, the school terms were all affected, so I didn't start looking for work until around April time. Managed to get a position within a week of looking so that was good.
Friends
Made some lovely friends, mainly through the school. In fact when we arrived, the school was just about to break up, but we asked if our daughter could go for the last 2 days of term, and in that time, we made friends who we then met up with during the summer holiday over Xmas. We actually socialise a lot more over here than we did in UK. Still you have to kiss a lot of frogs before you meet your prince and it is the same with friends. I accepted every invitation put my way whether I wanted to or not to begin with. You soon find the people who you gravitate back to. I have aussie, kiwi, south african, canadian and British friends, but have to admit, you do have this affinity with other Brits to a certain degree. Same childhood music, that sort of thing. Also, you all know what each other has been through regarding the move etc.
My hubby never wants to go back to the UK and my daughter (although she took some time to settle) loves it here now.
HOMESICKNESS !!!!!!!!!
Well apart from my post entitled "What do you do when you can't stop crying", it has been a doddle !!! No seriously, it can be very hard. Mine kicked in when I realised that hubby had a new job, daughter was fine at school, but what did I have ? I had a great term time job in UK and had a great social network linked in to it and all of a sudden I was just on my own. I felt really guilty about not working, but on the other hand I wanted to be around for holidays etc for my daughter to make sure she settled in, and only wanted to work part time. Felt guilty about going to lunch etc when hubby was working but soon realised that here, socialising with your girlfriends tends to be a daytime affair.
Well, I started off doing voluntary work at Riding for the Disabled and then got us a puppy. He has been fantastic for all of us and he got us out and about meeting people. Then I got my job. This was enough to make me feel as if I was contributing and that I had a purpose in our lives. Also, you gradually become more familiar with things which makes life easier.
We have already returned to the UK for a visit as we came on a return ticket. My nan was ill and it seemed a waste not to use it. I was really worried about going back as I was scared I wouldn't want to come back to Oz. I needn't have worried. UK is lovely, but this is the next chapter in our life and I am enjoying the journey and all the new experiences that come with it.
Summary
Australia isn't better than UK, but it is different and they say a change is as good as a rest. We feel completely energised here and look forward to every weekend. The weather here makes a big difference. Although Victoria is not seen as a hot
state, it suits us. Lowest daytime temp this winter was around 12 degrees, but the winds can be freezing. Spring has been lovely - like a UK summer and summer is great if a little too hot perhaps, because you get down on the beach and make the most of it. My daughter has a horse out here and it is perfect weather for that and also cycling. And even when it is cold, the sun shines and you feel good. And if you can arrange to drive down Beach Road each day as I do, then you will feel fantastic !
I am very glad we had the courage to make this move. For those of you about to come out - it is very very difficult, but stick with it and the rewards are great xx
Just a couple of photos as a taster - sights from our school run and riding Australian style at Pony Club
Hi Izzy
A great post. Good to hear how it went when you went back to UK that soon, we're thinking of that as a few rellies are quite old, but I guess everyone handles it differently. Hope the next year is just as good
Feb 21st 2007, 12:01 am
#13
Forum Regular
Joined: Feb 2007
Location: New Zealand
Posts: 96
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Hi Izzy
We are new on this forum, only posted a couple of replies so far. I can completely understand what you have been through because i have already done it here in New Zealand. We arrived here in November 2005 (Christchurch), hubby started work straight away (also a bricklayer). Was worried about son starting school not know anyone, but he hit it off right away and has loads of friends. I struggled getting work for about 5 months and felt exactly the same way you did (and cried a lot too). Finally got a job but hated it, but that led to another far better job that i do like.
Problem is, we are simply not making enough money here, we are struggling and we both have good jobs. So we are now thinking of applying for visas to Australia and scouring this forum for info. I've looked at the job website and there seems to be lots of work available for me in Melbourne (our preferred city) as a legal secretary (16 yrs experience), but we have read mixed reports about jobs for brickies there. Your post has given me a bit more hope, most seem to say Perth has all the work, but i would rather go to Melbourne.
Is your OH still doing well in the brickie business? Any help or advice would be appreciated
We are new on this forum, only posted a couple of replies so far. I can completely understand what you have been through because i have already done it here in New Zealand. We arrived here in November 2005 (Christchurch), hubby started work straight away (also a bricklayer). Was worried about son starting school not know anyone, but he hit it off right away and has loads of friends. I struggled getting work for about 5 months and felt exactly the same way you did (and cried a lot too). Finally got a job but hated it, but that led to another far better job that i do like.
Problem is, we are simply not making enough money here, we are struggling and we both have good jobs. So we are now thinking of applying for visas to Australia and scouring this forum for info. I've looked at the job website and there seems to be lots of work available for me in Melbourne (our preferred city) as a legal secretary (16 yrs experience), but we have read mixed reports about jobs for brickies there. Your post has given me a bit more hope, most seem to say Perth has all the work, but i would rather go to Melbourne.
Is your OH still doing well in the brickie business? Any help or advice would be appreciated
Mar 4th 2007, 9:04 am
#14
Forum Regular
Joined: Apr 2006
Location: VIC
Posts: 230
Re: A year later in Melbourne
An interesting read Izzy. It must feel more worthwhile when you've come through some tough times.
Mar 9th 2007, 5:01 am
#15
Forum Regular
Joined: Sep 2005
Location: Perth
Posts: 109
Re: A year later in Melbourne
Hello,
Lovely post.
I've found being a dog person really handy - on our first evening here we talked for over half an hour to one lady (and her dogs) in the park. She even gave us her phone number in case we needed anything.
Since our dog has arrived it's been even better - there aren't many springer spaniels around so I get people asking me all the time what he is, which generally leads into a mutual doggy chat.
Our daughter is starting pony club next week - and can't wait to ride on a beach. Isn't life grand.
Lovely post.
I've found being a dog person really handy - on our first evening here we talked for over half an hour to one lady (and her dogs) in the park. She even gave us her phone number in case we needed anything.
Since our dog has arrived it's been even better - there aren't many springer spaniels around so I get people asking me all the time what he is, which generally leads into a mutual doggy chat.
Our daughter is starting pony club next week - and can't wait to ride on a beach. Isn't life grand.