The likes and challenges of living in the Yarra Valley

Today I listened to a group of young people share about their likes of living in the Yarra Valley, and the challenges of living in the Yarra Valley. I thought I'd share them here for you, to help others get a picture of real life here.

Likes:

• Peaceful
• Not overcrowded - room to move around
• Privacy
• Less traffic
• Nice views
• Get to know everyone (which can be a challenge too!)
• Less busy

Challenges:

• Offensive graffiti (example of graffiti on livestock bridge over Warburton Highway that reads "scum lives here")
• Limited public transport - hourly services: if you miss a bus you have to wait for 1 hour
• Cost of public transport - paying the extra country fare
• Lack of jobs (having to travel to Chirnside for work isn't great - especially if you miss the bus!)
• Lack of entertainment.  There is little to do, so young people turn to drugs.  The local cinemas aren't great, and the movies are shown at least one month after their main release
• No clothing shops
• No local petrol stations

I am sure these are just the tip of the iceberg.  Life here is great, and challenging all at the same time.