Transitioning in a regional centre was a tough thing psychologically for me. I grew up in Bendigo as a kid and returned for university. I was part of a church community through my family, who were well known in the area. I returned in my mid-twenties, then transitioned at 33. Due to childhood trauma, I had stopped contact with family, but in a city like Bendigo — where people know you and your business – it was difficult to establish myself as an individual separate from my family and our history. Once I’d transitioned, I was desperate to leave the area, not because there was anything wrong with Bendigo but because there were ‘ghosts’ of my past around every corner. I was at a crossroad. Finally, as Ben, I was happy and confident, so I made the decision to stay and re-establish myself, finding new community and creating a healthy relationship with my hometown. Transitioning wasn’t about running away from a difficult past but moving towards my authentic life as Ben.