In mid 2022 I started working at ABC Northern Tasmania local radio. Based in the city of Launceston, I present or produce local radio daily for the north of the state. From Oatlands to Low Head, Smithton to Scottsdale – we really do cover everything and engagement with local listeners is very important.

Despite its strong image nationally and internationally, Tasmania does have a lot of issues that it’s dealing with currently. There are cost of living pressures everywhere – due partly to lower pay in comparison to mainland Australia – and longer term problems like education and healthcare systems that don’t give the outcomes that locals want.

Diving into these issues is very rewarding, because it really makes a difference when we can hold politicians and industry leaders to account.

Privately, I’m slowly getting to know the Tassie way of life, despite it being very different to anything I’ve experienced before. There is a lot of bushwalking, bright sun and cold days in my life now. And a garden that does whatever what it wants.

But the quality of life is great. I love the fact that within one hour of Launceston, you can go to the beach, go skiing or just hang out at a winery. Oh, and the commute to work that is just two or three minutes? Priceless.