As a kid growing up in a small town we looked up to those from the big cities. The dream was always to make it to the “big smoke”. My parents were very happy and proud when I moved to Sydney.
Then, when they heard that I had moved to Lord Howe Island, you could see and feel their disappointment. Lord Howe Island was too far away, not many choices of food, or entertainment, or opportunities! However, after 22 years on the Island, I couldn’t be happier than in my own home here.
Life after COVID, and the cost of living in the cities, has made more and more people think about where quality of life can be found – and many are leaving the big cities for a “sea change” or a “tree change”.
As I travel around the world, I see we are all like colonies of busy ants building our lives and our families around the clock. Many find joy in doing this but some feel trapped by their circumstances. However, Lord Howe remains an amazing place to raise a young family.
This winter is very quiet for the Island and it is a good time for a rest and break from our busy schedules. Lord Howe is good for the soul!
Lastly, the recent announcement from Qantas will have significant implications for the Island’s air services, as the Dash 8-200 is currently the only plane in the Qantas fleet that can land at Lord Howe Island Airport. Hopefully, a solution will be found.
ED. Stephen