As she delicately washed my hair she asked me questions about my life, what I did for a job and if I enjoyed my average day.

I explained that I made the move to Launceston only 18 months ago.

“You what?” she proclaimed, her hands stopping the massage.

I went on to share how I had grown up in Burnie and had been working there for eight years before an opportunity at The Examiner had presented itself as the next challenge in my life.

“I just don’t get it,” she muttered.

“You chose to move to Launceston. I never understand why people would choose to live here,” she said with a laugh.

There was silence.

“I just don’t get why people would move here,” she said again.

More silence.

I didn’t know whether to stay silent with a small laugh or speak up.

You see, I had the same thoughts when I first moved to Launceston.

I had lived here when I was 18 and declared I would never move back. It just wasn’t for me.

I was a beach lover and the Launceston smog wasn’t my thing.

Since moving back I’m happy to say that I was wrong. There is nowhere else in Tasmania I would rather be living right now. 

I can see a future here for my family. There is potential and opportunity when it comes to employment, social activities and friendships. Most importantly, Launceston is full of people who embrace innovation and change while respecting tradition. 

I told her all this as she washed the conditioner from my hair. 

“Hmmm, I guess. OK, you’re good to go,” she said, helping me up out of the chair. 

And off she walked to the back of the room.

We need to engage with youth to find out why they can’t see what many of us can. That Launceston is a great place to live and that the world can be their oyster, right here.

To do this, we need to be sharing our reasons for living here. I would love to hear yours. Join us at our exclusive Facebook page here and tell us why you call Launceston home.

Giveaways

We have more free tickets to offer our subscribers. Please keep an eye on your inbox as we will be sending an email to you all for a chance to win five double passes to Beerfest. Each VIP double pass is worth more than $180.

Until then, have you entered the draw to win tickets to join us in the Stella Artois marquee at the Barnbougle Polo in January? You can enter here.

Until next week,