Megan Gibbs and her husband Paul left their home in Northcote in 2012 to move to Australia. Melbourne offered work opportunities to help grow their careers and they found some similarities along with new experiences. Megan shares some of her experiences of life across the ditch.
When did you move overseas & where are you currently living?
I moved over to Melbourne six years ago and we have brought a house in Edithvale near the beach and close to Mornington Peninsula.
What prompted the move?
My husband Paul left the Navy, where he was based in Devonport, when more opportunities for work arose in Melbourne. Wages were higher and we wanted to get ahead.
Please share your brief Shore story…
I was born on the North Shore and grew up in Forrest Hill; I went to Campbells Bay Primary then on to Murrays Bay Intermediate and through to Westlake Girls. We moved to Mairangi Bay in my teens and I switched schools to Rangitoto College. I nannied for a couple of years after school then landed a job as an Early Childhood Teacher, which supported studying towards my degree. I am now a qualified Early Childhood Teacher.
What do you do for work over there?
I am a teacher at a private, all boys school in Brighton. I teach the pre-prep class (four year olds).
Who is the most awesome person you’ve met since moving?
When I first moved over I worked in a community kindergarten where I met a friend who was travelling and teaching. We instantly became amazing friends and since moving back to the UK I have been every year to visit her. It was great when she was here as we both loved to travel and see all parts of Victoria too.
What is the best food you’ve tried over there?
Melbourne food is amazing! I can’t specifically say my best meal as there is so many amazing restaurants. My two favourite places are Mamasitas, which is a Mexican place. It tastes authentic and you can have their menu tapas style. There also a Greek place called Gazi, which is owned by George Calombaris, incredible Greek food!
What’s your favourite app to use in your new country?
I do not really use Australian specific apps. However, I do constantly use the weather app as Melbourne weather can be changeable and, of course, the Qantas app for travel.
In what ways is your new home patch similar to the Shore, and how is it different?
Melbourne is similar as in it is multicultural, and the beaches do not have big waves just like the Shore. It is very different in that there is a bigger choice of food, shopping and entertainment. The weather is different. In summer you can get temperatures up to 40 degrees then in an hour it can change quickly and go down to 20. We've found it is also cheaper for food, power and day-to-day living.
To unwind, I...
Walk my dog on the beach, go to the movies and day drives around Melbourne. This city has plenty of beautiful walks and I enjoy trying new brunch places too.
If you could have three things from the Shore there with you, what would they be…
1. Friends and family
2. Fishing/seafood/Rj’s Liquorice.
3. Animals that don’t hurt you!
