As this is my first column as a journalist for the Stawell Times-News I would like to take this opportunity to thank my new colleagues and the people of Stawell for the warm welcome I have received.
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The move from Melbourne to Stawell has been refreshing.
It has opened my eyes to new possibilities beyond the city and invited me to experience a completely different lifestyle.
It was not all smooth sailing though.
Newcomer naivety crept up on me during my first few days when I pronounced Stawell as Star-well.
I am still trying to bury that shame with the consolation others have also made the same mistake before me.
It is all part of a journey, I have learnt from it and proceeded onto my next challenge which is mastering the pronunciation of Rupanyup.
Aside from the bloopers I have noticed Stawell makes you appreciate the small things in life.
Whether it is being able to see the stars in clear view at night without the distraction of city lights or walking down Main Street and seeing a familiar face after every few steps.
Stawell is a humble town and I am glad to call it home.
This year I finished my journalism degree at RMIT University.
Throughout my tertiary years I studied a semester in Manchester and completed work placements at SBS World News, the Herald Sun and the Ballarat Courier.
Away from the office I spend a number of hours each week on the tennis court and the running track.
I love to surround myself in nature and frequently find myself at the heart of the Grampians National Park climbing a different peak or wandering down an unknown trail.
We are very fortunate to have such an enchanting and world-renowned attraction right on our doorstep.
I have enjoyed getting to know Stawell, its people, its history and learning about the important issues at hand.
I look forward to chasing stories from Stawell and across the Wimmera and delivering them to my new readers.
Many of you have told me once you leave Melbourne and settle in country Victoria, it is very difficult to return.
I refused to believe it at first, but I find more truth to that statement every day.