‘I moved here for work when the right job came up. Everyone was really welcoming and the Bendigo Newcomers Group was great for meeting new people. I've also made lots of friends through sport.

We've got the best of both worlds here - old world charm with a metropolitan lifestyle. The local food and wine are really excellent. I don't think many people realise the cafés and restaurants we have here. I enjoy spending a day at the wineries or exploring places like Maldon and Castlemaine. The climate, the central location and the combination of regional and metropolitan lifestyles sets Bendigo apart.

I've been able to buy a brand new place and I couldn't have afforded the same kind of house in Melbourne. It takes me 10 minutes to get to work instead of 45 minutes in a traffic jam. You've got everything you need here but Melbourne is still only an hour and half away.'

– Dr Clare Lade

Dr Clare Lade moved to Bendigo in 2005 to take up a lecturing role in the School of Sport, Tourism & Hospitality Management at La Trobe University's Bendigo campus. Clare grew up near Shepparton and went to university in Albury Wodonga, where she completed her doctorate degree. After spells living in London and Melbourne, Clare now lives in Bendigo and is thriving in her new home.