A Warrnambool man was forced to enter lockdown in Canada just two weeks after moving there due to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Mat Milne, 30, relocated thanks to an opportunity to become the North American trade and commercial manager for Australian furniture company King Living.
When he arrived in Vancouver, word was trickling through about the coronavirus but there weren't any restrictions in place. Mr Milne spent two weeks exploring the city and went bungee jumping at Whistler.
However it soon became evident that his first few months in the city were going to be challenging.
"The restrictions are very similar to those in Australia," Mr Milne said.
He said all businesses except those which were considered essential services were shut down.
Mr Milne only ventures out to go to his office - which is 200 metres from where he lives - or to go grocery shopping or running.
"It has been difficult because I am a very social person and I haven't been able to get out and try to make friends," he said.
Mr Milne said he was lucky to work for such a supportive company, which was ensuring he was remaining connected to other staff members. Staff who work in Vancouver were recently treated to takeaway from a local restaurant, which was delivered to their homes and they enjoyed dinner together over Zoom.
"We're still trying to stay connected, even though we can't meet in person," Mr Milne said.
Despite the challenge, Mr Milne said he didn't regret his decision.
"I'm loving it here," he said. "Everyone is so nice and welcoming. The timing just could have been a bit better."
Mr Milne said he was staying in touch with family and friends back home via phone calls and social media. "That's made it a lot easier," he said.
Mr Milne said he wasn't sure when he would be able to return home to Warrnambool for a visit.
For now, he's just hoping to soon be able to explore more of the city he now calls home.
"With regard to my travel plans, I'll be at the mercy of what happens with the virus here," he said. Canada has 77,000 confirmed cases of coronavirus.
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