Room to roam

As city density, traffic and time spent at work increases so does the interest in regional living.

While there are those who will always crave the bright city lights, a growing number of families are seeing the benefits of a less harried lifestyle and the joys of going country.

For many it’s about meeting family needs – the need for a safe family environment, time spent with the kids and being part of a community that cares.

For others it’s more about work choices and as Dalby’s economy continues to diversify so does the population mix.

To find out why people choose to call Dalby home, the @Dalby Magazine asked three families, new to the community, what they saw as the benefits of a Dalby lifestyle.

The Niesel Family
Heinz and Sabina, and their daughter Sarah, moved to Dalby in January last year when Heinz was appointed commissioning engineer at the Kogan Creek power project.

Originally from Germany, Heinz met his wife Sabina while working in Singapore and although they have lived in many countries Sabina says they are enjoying Dalby’s relaxed and friendly lifestyle.

“There are no queues, no traffic. In Singapore you have to book two weeks ahead just to go to the cinema.”

The Neilson Family
Mark and Benita moved to Dalby with their two boys Liam and Jaidan from the Gold Coast hinterland last October to pursue a new business venture.

Benita says what they love most about Dalby is the ease of living and sense of community.

“We used to drive 40kms to take the children to school and it was10kms to the nearest convenience store but here the children walk safely to school within 10 to 15 minutes.”

The McEwan Family

Cliff and Kayleen and their three daughters Lisa, Jackie and Kacey moved to Dalby from Mackay early this year when Cliff took up a position as a plant operator at Wilke Creek coal mine.

Kayleen says they made the decision to relocate to Dalby where Cliff’s work was closer to home and the family could take advantage of the wide open spaces.

“We think it’s better to bring up children in the country. It’s safer and the children are more often outdoors.”

A keen sporting family, they are active members of Dalby’s sports community.