TheNightOwl

BR19, I forgot to say that another thing to bear in mind is that almost all the wildlife here will try to kill you!!! Cheers, TNO.

Hi, BR19, Like you, I am a sunlover but, as has been said, take the greatest of care in the sun. In my 22 years in the RAF, I lived in the sun in diverse places like Malta; Cyprus; Germany; Kenya; Singapore and Brunei. Following that, I have spent 33 years here, lots of them in the sun including, believe it or not, in Melbourne! I am now reaping the result in that I am about to have my fifth skin cancer excised. Fortunately, only one was malignant. Secondly, before you leave UK, make sure that you get (IN WRITING) confirmation that your gas-fitting qualifications are recognised here, and will not necessitate your having to study and re-qualify to local regulations. I have personal experience of this, so check before you leave. Other than that, if you are BOTH determined, it is mostly a great [place to live and bring up a family. Best regards, TNO.

HI, Ginger, Welcome, and welcome to your second bite of the "cherry"! In many ways you are fortunate ; you have skills to offer; you are prepared to work; obviously prepared to travel to achieve your goals; single(ish) and are an obviously aware person. One warning, you've no doubt heard before: ditch the rose-tinted glasses, Aus can be a lonely bitch of a place until you find your feet and get settled into a lifestyle. You MAY find it easier to find work outside the major cities, (why anyone would choose to live in Sydney is beyond me), and it is not always easy to make your mark quickly. Be prepared for disappointments, trust only your own instincts until you know better. You seem a bright, open, willing and "gung-ho" lass, you'll make it if you have the drive and passion to succeed. All the luck in the world, you'll need it! I look forward to your story in thee future. TNO.

Hi, SM, What I would consider the best advice is for both of you to explore the REALITY of employment here. Before I left the RAF in 1983, I took a month's leave and came here to assess work possibilities in my field, Flight Simulator Engineering. I was sure that, after 22 years experience, I would be an attractive proposition for Qantas, Australian Airlines, etc., etc. Not a chance, QF simply refused to talk to me, it was a bucket of cold water, perhaps at least partially deserved! I was offered a job immediately in a different field but, when the employer inquired about the process, he was told to make no offer, if he had a job vacancy then it should go to an Australian. I realise that you may not be able to do as I did, my point is you must be as sure as you can that you want to make the commitment. Oz has changed greatly since I arrived and, although I have had the best working life imaginable, (in the airline industry), it has not been easy until the last 15 or so years. It is VERY hard work, so be prepared. Socially, you will have to be somewhat selfish and hard-hearted to leave families behind and, despite being told that the world is small nowadays, NO, it is NOT!! It is difficult at times, and the phone bills to Mum and Dad will be horrendous! Basically, it all comes down to preparation, planning and single-mindedness if you are to succeed. Good luck, if you have more queries, please post them, I am willing to help all I can. Cheers, TNO. (ex-pat Aberdonian).

Thanks for the welcome, mate! TNO.

Hi, Marisa, Thank you for the welcome, it's much appreciated. Two husbands? Good God, girl, didn't you learn the first time? My wife was not best pleased about leaving UK, and elder daughter, but I worked for the best airline Australia has ever seen, so travel was very convenient for us at staff travel rates, so it wasn't too bad. Younger daughter lives close (12Km), with husband and four kids, two of each, so she is always busy and the kids (6 to 14) keep her young. It will be our 57th wedding anniversary in October, so that's something to look forward to. Cheers, TNO.

Hi, everybody, I had no idea this site existed until ten minutes ago! I'm ex-RAF, 22 years, and emigrated in 1983 immediately following my service, with wife and younger daughter. If anyone wants to get in touch, please feel free, I'm now retired from the workforce and have lots of time. I'm coming up to 77 yo, healthy, somewhat overweight, don't drink or smoke. I was an Instrument Fitter in the Mob, became a Simulator Tech by osmosis, much to my delight since the experience secured me almost immediate employment here (in Melbourne) for twenty years. I had the best working life ever, loved my time in uniform (mostly), and have loved being an Aussie since 1983. Wonderful time, wonderful place. Regards to all, TheNightOwl.