Melbourne-based Matt Healy couldn’t have guessed that doing an online professional writing degree would culminate with him living and working in the vibrant rural township of Moree in northern New South Wales.
But that’s precisely what happened and the amateur stargazer hasn’t looked back – or down – since!
Matt was working in an IT-based customer service job and doing his arts degree remotely while living in Hoppers Crossing in Melbourne’s southwest.
The self-confessed introvert and geek was craving adventure, so he “took a chance” after graduating and successfully applied for a communications role at Moree Plains Shire Council.
“I’m drawn to open spaces, love nature and stargazing is my favourite hobby,” Matt says.
With minimal light pollution in Moree, Matt can now view the spiral of the Milky Way in greater detail with the naked eye. Even so, he’s looking forward to packing up his telescope and travelling further afield, including a visit to the CSIRO space observatory at nearby Narrabri.
“I enjoy the rural feel of the Moree Plains – all the towns have their own unique personality,” Matt says.
He is “forever walking places” and living regionally has given him a newfound appreciation for, and understanding of, Australian literature. He’s even tried writing his own Aussie stories, as a testament to his love of the country.
“Everything is still available to you in the country, but I’ve come to notice what is really essential to me. Living regionally cuts through the unnecessary and gets straight to the point,” Matt says.
But it still lets you live life with stars in your eyes.
