The Scotsman, Graeme McColgan talks about what it’s like to raise children in a new country.

As I sit here, reflecting on the journey that brought me to the sun-kissed shores of Australia, one thing stands out amidst the whirlwind of change and adaptation – my lucky charm, Rosie. Born in October 2020, she’s been a constant source of joy and inspiration, her very presence seeming to weave a thread of good fortune into the fabric of our lives.

You see, since Rosie’s arrival, Scotland hasn’t lost the Calcutta Cup (sorry lads, it happened again!), a fact that’s become something of a running joke among friends and family back home. But to me, it’s more than just a coincidence – she truly is my lucky charm, bringing with her a touch of magic from the moment she entered the world.

Yet, as any expat will tell you, the journey of raising children in a new country comes with its own set of challenges. Caught between two worlds, we find ourselves navigating the delicate balance of preserving our heritage and identity while embracing the opportunities that come with a new life in Australia.

For our family, that journey is often marked by moments of laughter and linguistic mishaps, as Rosie breaks from her mum’s Aussie accent to proclaim in perfect Glaswegian “I don’t noooo”, asks for “mulk” instead of milk and will gladly shout “no ye cannae” during the Granny song. 

And when I ask her where Scotland is, she simply points to her heart – a gesture that never fails to warm my soul.

Music has become our bridge between worlds, our way of staying connected to the land we left behind. Together, Rosie and I sing the old Scottish tunes – Ye Cannae Shove Yer Granny Off the Bus, Ally Bally Bee – to her little brother, Finn. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the sight of a toddler belting out every word of Flower of Scotland, even if there is a slight Aussie twang in her rendition. Music our way of keeping the flame of tradition alive in our new home, while creating memories that will last a lifetime.

So, while I may occasionally find myself missing the misty glens of Scotland, I wouldn’t change the decision to move here for anything. And as for Rosie, well, she’s not just my lucky charm – she’s my partner in crime, my fellow Celt, and the star of our very own daddy-daughter Celtic band.

And if you listen closely to my new album, Distant Shores, you might just catch a glimpse of Rosie’s sweet voice chiming in alongside mine – a reminder that no matter where life takes us, the bonds of family and music will always keep us connected to our roots.


The Scotsman
Graeme McColgan

0476 565 062 

http://www.thescotsmanmusic.com

@thescotsmanmusic

Picture: Graeme McColgan/Supplied