Did I Really Grow Up in the Country?

About six months ago I was driving somewhere with Mum and she mentioned how lovely it was to live in the country. I was gobsmacked. I have been living in the same town for over 18 years and just realised it was classed as the country.

Beerwah, in my opinion, is a suburb. It's caught between the coast and the city, the hinterland.

As I drove past some cows on my way home from Uni today I kind of had a little giggle to myself. As much I can deny my inner hillbilly this is the countryside.

It's not all bad though.

Although we have our fair share of bogans, this is my home and one of my favourite places in the whole world.

I love that we are 20 minutes from the beach and an hour from the city. I love the fresh air and the mountain views. I love that this is where my parents decided to bring me up. I love that I went to the local primary and high schools. I love that my life is here.

This photo was taken by the extraordinary Adrian Bell, follow him on Instagram @caloundravision for some truely beautiful photos.

As much as the excitement of the city lights and beautiful buildings makes me yearn for my own apartment and elevator, living in a relatively small country town makes me so appreciative of the community. I think having a tight knit town of people is humbling. I really appreciate that we have local people working together for the benefit of each other.

This idea of community came about as I started to look to my own future. In journalism you have to go regional to get any kind of start in the industry. For me, having such a strong connection to the community here is something I really want to take with me when I inevitably travel to Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton or Bundaberg.

I think I am already starting to miss this place, even though I am still here.

#ashleighdwan #beyondthestory #journalism