So you want to be a travel writer?

At work - near Ballarat

I've long held a dream to write about travel - it's my perfect job, combining two of my favourite pastimes. But it seemed like a pipe dream. I mean, a 'normal' (stop laughing) person like me leaving a respectable corporate job to be paid to have fun? Really?

Well... yes. At least, sort of.

In my true fashion I first spent some time pining after the dream before getting sick of myself and remembering my big motto in life: not happy with something? Then change it. In this case it meant, stop waiting for opportunities and just create them.

As with all the writing goals I've kicked so far it began here on the blog. Blogging about Walhalla and Wilson's Prom for Destination Gippsland made me think I could possibly do this travel writing thing. Being asked to give Bright and Ballarat some social media coverage gave me another push in the right direction - and I've used those trips to prove that I can do it in the traditional media space too.

I know it isn't quite the Dream of jetting around the world just yet, but writing about Australia - and especially Victoria - is perfect for me right now. These are places I'm passionate about, and it fits in with my little family who need me lots.

Not that it's all fun and frivolity. Travel writing involves its own set of skills, lots of research, and plenty of active travelling as opposed to relaxing. There's certainly a 'work' element to it that can be difficult - and tiring - to juggle with young kids. (I'm not complaining - just wanted to say that it's not all 'hey I'll take a holiday and be paid for it!')

The Great Ocean Road

Later this week I'm taking a trip I've been wanting to do for ages. The Great Ocean Road - where I'll be exploring an intriguing different angle to this major tourist attraction - will lead us towards Kangaroo Island in South Australia. I have three articles to write on these destinations, ranging from history to camping and hiking.

It didn't just come about - I made it happen. I wanted to explore these places and share some interesting stories, so I pitched my ideas and hey! They said yes. It's amazing what happens when you put yourself out there and start chasing the things you really want. And let's face it, it's hard to be a travel writer without getting out there.

I may not be riding elephants around Africa or rolling in cash but I'm the happiest I've ever been with my career.