Heating up in Collie

IT’S been a busy month both settling into life in Collie and learning the ropes at the Bulletin

Fortunately, the two have often been complementary, with my work-related peregrinations providing a good platform to learn more about the town, its people, history and the issues that matter at a local level.

Along the way, I’ve met many locals both in the office and while out and about, and have appreciated the welcoming atmosphere that greets a recent arrival.

There’s been a lot to absorb in a short period of time – Collie certainly has its own unique story to tell – and my overriding impression is that I’ve arrived at an important juncture in the town’s history.

In short, I’m steadily getting the hang of things.

Meanwhile, furniture has begun to manifest itself around our house (which no longer resembles a campsite), and it now feels as if we’re beginning to put some roots down.

Of course, getting into a routine helps, and I’m looking forward to building more momentum – and learning more about what makes Collie tick – in the coming months.

Speaking of the coming months, one thing I am approaching with trepidation is the upcoming winter.

Having found my way here via warmer climes, I’m already feeling the full force of the colder weather.

But, not only that, I’m told that this is nothing yet!

We have been heaterless until recently, and were sorely unprepared for the mercury dropping over the last few weeks.

I’ve been fortifying myself with layers of jumpers first thing in the morning, but the cold still bites.

Perhaps it takes a while to acclimatise. I’ve noticed many locals getting around in short sleeves first thing in the crisp mornings!

Still, now that we actually have heating it’s nice to retreat to the warmth of the indoors when the weather gets a bit chilly.

There’s been a few days recently with the mist rising in the early morning, and it is certainly makes for very scenic views in the valley.

Another thing that has become immediately apparent is the substantially shortened degrees of separation in Collie. It’s by no means “six degrees of separation”.

It’s certainly been interesting connecting the social dots in the short time that I’ve been here!

Of course, this ultimately helps to create a strong sense of community, and as many people have told me this is one of the key attractions of Collie.

With that said, I look forward to meeting more people and making more connections in the coming months.