Kia Ora from a Kiwi down under!
My name is Matt.
I am the new reporter in the South West region of Western Australia, based in the quaint Bridgetown.
I arrived from Christchurch, New Zealand earlier this month a city that is still rebuilding more than five years on from two severe earthquakes.
Having been a city boy all my life, living in a small town has been quite the culture shock for me.
Nevertheless, I am delighted to be here and ready to deliver the hyperlocal news our readers deserve.
I value community news, telling stories that place local people at the forefront.
My first week in Bridgetown has been an interesting experience what stands out most of all is how friendly everyone is.
Its so easy to bump into familiar faces, and Ive only just got here.
This is also my first time residing in Australia, my greatest test has been learning about football the Australian way.
I watched my first AFL games on the weekend, with the purple team winning and the blue and gold team going down apparently this was not meant to be?
This is not a game I have experienced before, however, it was a great eye-opener for what to expect at the local footy games in and around the region.
My preferred football is soccer, it pains me to refer to it as that as I grew up in England as a Pom.
I was a reporter in Christchurch covering a range of topics including food, education, council, sport and theatre to name a few.
I am also a fully-qualified chef, so hit me up if you ever need some cookery tips.
I look forward to visiting the wonderful wineries the South West has to offer.
Learning the local language and slang has been another tricky test.
It seems everyone likes to shorten names and places, with several nicknames to memorise such as: Donny, Bridgey, Manji, Bunno, Busso and Margs.
As well as learning the names of some of the towns: Dinninup, Palgarup, Balbarup, Winnejup, Nannup, Noggerup, Mullalyup and Kirup with its infamous syrup!
If you see me around then dont hesitate to stop and introduce yourself, Im always happy to chat especially if its about soccer, what with the Euros currently underway.