Читать книгу MOSAIC - Boroondara Writers Inc - Страница 4

In 1960 my family arrived at the Melbourne Docks in a luxury liner called ‘The Orange’, a large Dutch vessel. My then husband’s company in London had requested our transfer to Melbourne so that he could run their office in Collins Street. The company had a house waiting for us in Glen Iris. Our children were two and four years old and after our arrival they continuously asked where their grandparents were. They missed them dreadfully.

After unpacking and getting accustomed to the company house I set about getting to know neighbours and shops. At first, I was in shock and dreadfully homesick for the UK but I had to ‘think positive’ and made a great effort to settle in. My children were fortunate to have a kindergarten in the street and when they were there, I got busy getting organised. It was hard and although people were friendly, I was sad and missed home.

I decided to organise a luncheon day once a month for the other mothers with children at the kindergarten. It worked well – they, too, were mothers from other countries such as Germany and Holland. I also offered my help to an antiques shop in Glen Iris which helped me greatly.

People were kind and thoughtful including my husband’s business friends and families but despite my concentrated efforts, it took a very long time to feel a part of the local scene. Although I have great affection for Melbourne I still have very deep roots in the UK and I don’t think that will ever change.