Treechange tips from people who've already made the move
The tips below will help anyone considering making a treechange.
Before making the move...
- Question your motives - don't view the move as a 'fix-all'.
- List your wants for your new community - match them with the town's attributes.
- Research the area - talk to locals, new residents, the local Council.
- Identify gaps - do they fit your skills?
- Visit at various times of year.
- Consider your family too.
- List the pros and cons of moving.
- Availability of accommodation; does it fit your price range?
- Organise a financial buffer - it takes time to get established.
- Factor in pricing differences, fuel and groceries can cost more, recreational activities can be cheaper.
- Learn rural values.
- Expect others will want to know your business.
- Remember there are great people everywhere!
Settling in ...
- Remember what motivated you to move
- Embrace differences, be adaptable in relation to food, recreation, work ...
- Get involved - join clubs and community organisations. (Don't expect people to come to you.)
- Use routine tasks like shopping to meet people.
- Give it time! Don't expect to slot in immediately.
- Read the local paper - it'll put names to faces and give you something to chat about with locals.
- Volunteer - you'll meet people, and contribute to the community.
- Keep your own counsel - listen rather than speak for a while.
- Drop your assumptions about city and country life.
- Develop contingency plans and emergency procedures if living remote.
- Recognise that due to distance, things can take longer to get done.
If you're seriously considering the move visit www.victoriantreechange.com.au Alternatively, contact any of the five Council offices.
|
