Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

Sit Down With Sam

Hello readers and welcome to the very first edition of Burdekin Life!

My name is Sam and I’m the journalist, the man on the ground, and one of the Burdekin’s newest residents. I recently moved to Home Hill from Mackay and have been warmly welcomed by everyone I’ve come across so far, so I thank you for that.

I grew up in a town not too much bigger than Home Hill - southeast Queensland’s Millmerran – so when I was asked if I’d like to relocate to the Burdekin as the newspaper expanded, I almost immediately said yes. I moved from Millmerran to Brisbane when I finished school for further study and, at the start of 2022, moved from Brisbane to Mackay, a move that was drastic and spontaneous at the time, but one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

I needed to escape the rat race and routine of the big city and my move to tropical north Queensland certainly achieved that. Since then, I’ve fallen back in love with life in the regions, where the spirit of community is clear at every turn. I already sense this in the Burdekin and look forward to immersing myself further over coming months.

Sport and music are my two biggest passions, so as I settle into my new home, you’ll find me having a hit of tennis, rolling the arm over at Home Hill Cricket Association, and maybe even playing some of my favourite tunes on Sweet FM. I love the outdoors and already have a list of things to do while I’m here including climbing Mount Inkerman, watching a cane fire and diving the SS Yongala – let me know what else I should add to the list!

I can’t wait to learn more about the region and would love your help. If you’ve got a story, a recommendation, a suggestion for somewhere new to explore, please reach out – you’ll find my contact details to the left. Enjoy our first edition and make sure to say g’day if you see me out and about!

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