Experiencing life in both Tasmania and Johannesburg has taught me just how different these two places are but also how much each one has to offer.

Tasmania is calm, quiet, and filled with much natural beauty. Johannesburg is lively and filled with cultural energy. If I could combine the best aspects of both, I believe I would create the perfect life.

In Tasmania, I enjoy the clean air and the freedom throughout, the wide-open spaces, and the sense of safety it offers. You are able to walk down the street and smile and have people greet you. Tasmania is a very calm location and living in Johannesburg made me realise how beautiful Tasmania really is and how lucky I am to live in the place I do. Tasmania offers a range of scenic adventures including beaches, mountains, and forests.

In Johannesburg, I experienced a level of energy that I’ve never felt anywhere else. I was lucky enough to experience the traditional culture and the schoolboy culture – the latter included war cries and even participating in one of the under 16 rugby teams.

On weekends I always found myself doing some sort of activity, whether it was hanging out with my mates, exploring local markets, or going to a restaurant to watch the Springboks play rugby. The city buzzes with energy. I met people from all over the world and made lifelong friends that I intend to keep in touch with forever. My friends helped me experience the true South African life and made me not want to come home when my exchange trip had come to an end.

I would combine Tasmania’s peaceful and beautiful surroundings with the lively energy and variety found in Johannesburg. I want a place where I can appreciate nature while being part of an active and creative community, but also a community where I meet new people every day.

I would hold on to the safety and calm way of life that Tasmania offers. I would take with me the incredible culture from Johannesburg.

Exchange is an amazing opportunity that offers uncountable opportunities. This Round Square opportunity had me outside of my comfort zone and had me learning new things all the time. I truly miss Johannesburg and my friends back there, and the culture they exposed me to.

Lachlan Mayes
Year 10