Tanya Bradley-Barrett grew up in California then moved to Australia after falling in love with an Aussie while Down Under on a working holiday. She tells Charlene Macaulay the full story.
What is your connection to Wyndham?
I am from California in the USA … [I] originally came to Australia to work and travel. Before Australia, I worked in the UK. I have now lived in Australia for 17 years and I love it. I have lived in Wyndham off and on for five years. Initially, we lived in Point Cook but moved to Wyndham Harbour when we felt that Point Cook was getting too congested.
I love living in Wyndham Harbour. We enjoy walking with the dogs on the beach. I love listening to the waves crashing on a windy day. Bike rides along the foreshore. It is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day.
What is your day job?
I am a nurse and have worked for Western Health for over 12 years. I have worked in the intensive care unit at Footscray and Sunshine hospitals and I currently work at the Williamstown Hospital campus as a nursing supervisor.
I really enjoy my supervising job, it gives me the opportunity to interact with a wide variety of people. You never know what your day will bring or what challenges it will hold. I have learned flexibility and to expect the unexpected.
Tell me about your family.
I met my husband who is Australian during a girl’s night out at a bar. My working holiday then turned into something permanent. We’ve been together for 15 years. He comes from a large multicultural family and they immediately made me feel welcome. Our kids have four paws and they are very spoilt.
What are some of your hobbies?
On my days off, I like going to pilates or yoga classes. We enjoy going on country drives visiting town and a winery or two. I am part of the Wyndham Harbour Owners Corporation committee which keeps me involved in the community.
If you could change one thing about the area, what would it be?
I wish VicRoads would repair Duncans Road so that we had a better road leading to Wyndham Harbour. Between Whites Road and the entrance to the estate, the road is narrow with shoulders full of pot holes.
What’s your favourite Wyndham restaurant or cafe, and why?
Master Wok in Werribee. We go there on a weekly basis, bring our bottle of wine and enjoy a great meal.
For something extra special, we go to Joseph’s at Werribee Mansion. We recently celebrated our wedding anniversary there.
