1st Day in Perth

Was greeted at Perth International Airport by a 8 deg C temperature (nice !!). The aniticipation of Custom Officers going through our bags was unfounded. Sarah and I declared the medications that we were carrying and was shown the exit, without havng to go through the X-Ray screening. Both were equally surprised as many of the other passengers were subjected to lots of various questionaires and checks.
The next anxiety was to ensure that all the luggages were out and accounted for. The shock was not for us but for the UWA representative who came by to pick us up. All-in-all, there were 18 pieces of luggages. In his words ... "It was like house moving !!!". After a short 25 min ride, we arrived at St Thomas More College. This is where it would be home for the 3 girls for the semester. (Sarah-Marie @ N126, Kristine @ N125 and Yvette @ I66). Their rooms come with the essentials .. bed, wardroom and a study table + most importantly, 24-hr Internet Connections (the channel/window to their cyberworld !!).

Met Mr Greg Bates, the Administrator, who facilitated a smooth check-in for the girls were most helpful in providing local advice and enabling the girls to quickly phase-in with the college/UWA life. We were indeed most thankful and fortunate for all his personal assistance and care.

Following a quick lunch and introduction to the catering staff, the next obvious move was to take the walking path, through the underpass to the UWA grounds. The icon for the campus was the large clock tower that faces St Thomas More College. A must take snap-shot for anyone who will pass through the gates of UWA. On the campus grounds, we found the WestPac bank where most of the financial transaction is going to take place, the cafe and "odds & ends" shops. Very self contained !!!
We also walked around the campus neighbourhood to view the many houses/apartments for rental. Much were in demand. One single unit and some 20 applicants were waiting in line. Also, dropped by the nearest supermarket to check out the prices. Generally, cost of living in Perth is relatively high. Its also a rather quiet place and locals advised to remain indoors after dark !!(Hmmmm !!! Is there something that they know, that they are not telling ?!!!)
Whatever the case, it was a good start for a 2.5 years of stay in Aussieland.