Now I’m permanently settled, it’s time to get more involved locally – to keep myself busy with activities, as well as meet more people and contribute to the local community. I’m very fortunate that a good friend has also taken the bold step of moving from city life to Kandos so I have a partner in crime, although everyone here is very welcoming.

After the Bread and Pizza making classes in Mudgee, I’ve joined Mudgee Fine Foods, which host the monthly Farmers Market and organises Farm Walks. The last visit to the Farmers Market yielded a bounty of local produce, including amazing paddock to plate cured meats from Pipeclay Pumphouse. I came away with truffle salami, coppa and pork terrine. You need to get in early for the proscuitto.

My friend and I also popped in for a warm welcome at Mudgee Knitters’ Guild which I think will become a regular outing and we’ve also joined the local CWA. All of which are noble country pursuits. Combined with Museum duties and potentially gardening activities, not to mention my Rylstone Artisan Markets monthly stall, should see me well occupied for some time.