Many years ago, as a 40-something woman on her own living in inner Melburbia, I relocated to Mildura for a teaching position and was looking forward to a slower, less pressured lifestyle. I lasted there just a fortnight- I was alone on weekends, unable to engage others in conversation in the cafes or the pub, and sadly, seemed something of a threat to married couples. While some happy families apparently thrive in the regions, singles can be in a far less positive position. A social life can be as important as running away from the rat-race.