Meet working holiday maker Genevieve Pursuing my passion for pastries in Alice Springs

Genevieve Jean first came to the Northern Territory as a Working Holiday Maker. Three years later, she can’t imagine ever leaving Alice Springs, thanks to the relaxed lifestyle, the friendships made and the hiking trails within easy reach.

Why did you choose to live in Alice Springs?

What started as a 3-month stopover during an Australian travel adventure turned into a 3-year stay. After I made my way to Darwin I headed south and stopped in Alice Springs and found a job for 3 months. But I realised life is too good to leave after such a short time. The stunning landscape, beautiful people I met and the easy lifestyle are why I have been living in Alice Springs for 3 years.

When asked to describe why she likes living in Alice Springs, Genevieve says the Red Centre town is welcoming, convenient and supportive.

When did know that Alice Springs was home?

When I first arrived, I met people who came for 6 months and stayed for years. I felt Alice was right for me because of the easy lifestyle, convenience, good nights out, stunning waterholes. But most importantly, my friends and people I work for who became like family.

How welcoming is the Alice Springs community?

Alice Springs is by far the friendliest town I’ve lived in. People are approachable, kind, and happy to help each other or to get to know you. Since living here I am much more easy going and enjoy meeting people and being myself. I find that you can really be yourself and don’t need to be afraid of judgement because it’s such a welcoming community.

Have you experienced the kindness of locals?

Absolutely. During a road trip, my friend had an accident an hour and a half north of Alice. So many people stopped to help us, blocking the road to stop other traffic, assisting her, and ensuring we were all okay until medics arrived. It was terrifying but beautiful to experience such kindness.

What opportunities have helped your career or personal growth?

As a pastry chef, I couldn’t be working in a better place than The Bakery. They hired me despite my limited experience with bread baking and croissants, allowing me opportunities to be creative with pastries and desserts.

My employer is one of the best I’ve ever had, they understand me and trust me and are here for me on a personal level. Alice Springs is not a big city where you feel like a number: we’re all like a big family that are here to support each other.

How easy is it to find work in Alice Springs?

It was actually quite easy to find work. When people learned I am a pastry chef they suggested I contact The Bakery, and I’ve been working there ever since they reopened after a renovation.

What makes Alice Springs’ lifestyle so special?

I love how convenient Alice Springs is. We’ve got supermarkets within 5 minutes drive and beautiful waterholes less than 15 minutes drive. There’s stunning sunsets, lots of bushwalks and hiking trails. There are also good events and music gigs with talented local musicians. The other thing I like is that Alice is multicultural with people from all over the world, which makes everyone feel welcome.

What I like most is the friends I’ve made, who have become like my own family. We are all here to help and support each other through good times and bad.

Where are your favourite places to explore around Alice Springs?

My favourite place to go running is on the trails at the Telegraph Station. On weekends my favourite spot is Wigley’s Waterhole because it’s stunning and its also easy to get to. I also completed a 16-day hike on the Larapinta Trail. OMG, so good!

What would you say to someone thinking about living in Alice Springs?

Come! You’ll meet unforgettable people and see this beautiful landscape and sunsets. You’ll find a job in no time and I’m certain you’ll find something that you’re into, like group sport, a community group, outdoor activities or even bird watching if you’re into it.

The beautiful drives out into the West MacDonnell Ranges and the trail runs in the bush make appreciate how its worth taking the time to enjoy where you’re living.