COVID-19 City Tales: Sydney. “I’ve learnt I need to work projects to stay sane. When I haven’t had work to do, I’ve struggled to find purpose”.

A conversation with… Hannah, 28, Graphic Designer, Sydney. Not in lockdown.

Firstly, can you let me know if you are self-isolated or quarantined?

Australia has brought in strict restrictions that started a week ago. We’re not under lockdown yet, but you can’t go out in groups of more than 2 and you’re only meant to do out if it’s necessary.

Are you spending it alone or with company?
I’m spending it with my 4 housemates, which has been mostly fun but sometimes testing.

How are you coping with confinement?
Apart from getting sick of seeing the same faces, I’m coping with confinement quite well. I’m still going out for a walk every day and we have a big backyard. My advice would be to try and keep socialising if you can. Whether that’s online or with your housemates.

Describe the area where you live. Did you know your neighbours much before this happened? Has your relationship changed since this started?
I live in a busy area in the inner suburbs of Sydney. We knew a few of our neighbours before, who we were friends with. The main difference is that we don’t get to socialise with them as much.

What was the last thing you did before isolating? Can you remember that day?
One of the last things I did was go to the beach on a hot day. Most of the beaches have been closed now. It’s a shame as we still have some hot days.

Do you miss the outdoors? Why?
I miss going to the beach, but I’m still going out for walks locally.

Do you agree with the way your Government has handled the crisis? What would you change?

At the moment, the numbers aren’t too bad in Australia, so I don’t think the government has acted too badly. I think there should have been more of a direct message from the government though to inspire people to follow the rules and stay home.

Do you think this will have positive consequences as well?
The positive consequence will be the effect on climate change, other than that I don’t think there will be many other positive changes.

Lastly, tell me something new you’ve learnt about yourself during isolation.
I’ve learnt I need to work projects to keep me busy and stay sane. When I haven’t had work to do, I’ve struggled to find purpose. I need to be more proactive in getting work.

You can follow and support Hannah’s graphic design work at https://www.hannahndesign.co.uk/