A return to Temora Shire gave physiotherapist Emily Haddrill room to build a business, raise a family and help her community keep moving.
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One of the women attending Emily Haddrill’s classes turns 90 next year. For the founder of The PhysioPark in Ariah Park, her commitment to keep moving is a reminder of why opening a healthcare business in a small country town matters.

Across Temora Shire, local businesses and services help communities thrive. For people considering a move to the country, the opportunity to build a career, raise a family and make a meaningful contribution locally is part of the appeal.

Through The PhysioPark, Emily has seen how bringing professional support closer to home can make looking after health easier to fit into everyday life. It has also given her the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with the people she works with.

“I learn so much just from spending time with them,” she says.

Those relationships are part of a life Emily has built after eight years studying and living in Melbourne and Albury. Growing up on a farm had given her an early connection to country life, and even while living away, many of her closest friends had ties to smaller communities.

There was no firm plan to return. But when she imagined where she might raise a family, her own childhood helped guide the decision.

“I loved having space and freedom growing up, and I wanted our children to have those same opportunities. I’m grateful for my years away, but country life has always felt like home,” Emily says.

A life that fits.

‍Today, she and her husband, Mitchell, are raising three children while managing farming and The PhysioPark. Returning brought familiar surroundings, but establishing her business meant taking on something new.

Her interest in physiotherapy began with a love of sport, running and swimming, and a fascination with what the human body could do. During her studies, she discovered how much she enjoyed sharing that knowledge.

“I love helping people understand their bodies and showing them how movement can improve their health and everyday life,” she says.

Working for other physiotherapists in Temora and Leeton, Emily began teaching matwork classes. Over time, she recognised a need for better access to those services in Ariah Park and surrounding communities.

The town’s size prompted questions from others. Emily’s response was practical and personal.
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Small town - huge possibilities

“People might think, ‘Why Ariah Park? It’s such a small town.’ But for me, it was, ‘Why not?’” she says. “I care about this community and wanted to offer something that people would otherwise have to travel for.”

Set in the NSW Riverina, Temora Shire brings together the welcoming character of its smaller communities with the services, facilities and opportunities that help people build a life in the country. From local businesses and sporting facilities to community events and open spaces, the region offers opportunities to pursue interests, connect with others and enjoy the benefits of country living.

Ariah Park, around 20 minutes west of Temora, is one example of the communities that make up the shire, each with its own character and strong local connections.

Establishing The PhysioPark was a significant investment, with the responsibilities of business ownership added to an already busy household. Seeing clients improve their health keeps her motivated, while residents have helped the practice grow through bookings, recommendations and encouragement.

Her experience has made her conscious of the possibilities that professionals can overlook when considering a regional move.

“There are gaps in access to healthcare in rural areas, and I think that creates opportunities for people who want to bring their knowledge and skills here,” Emily says. “You can build a career, get to know your community and see the difference your work makes.”

There is more she wants to do. A nutritionist from Wollongong is being welcomed to offer workshops and individual appointments, and Emily plans to make it easier for other health professionals to work at The PhysioPark.

Balancing work and family life isn't always easy, but Emily says having Mitchell's support makes a real difference.

“I’m so grateful for Mitchell and the support he gives me. He has an incredible work ethic, and we share similar values around family and looking after our health,” she says. “Having him beside me makes life fun and exciting!”

That sense of connection extends beyond the home. Whether it's lending a hand, checking in on a neighbour or making time for others, looking out for one another is part of everyday life in a close-knit community. Alongside the space and slower pace of country living, these connections can help people make time for family, enjoy their surroundings and appreciate the little things, even when life doesn't always go to plan.

Emily and Mitchell want their children to see them working hard and pursuing things they love, while also making time to enjoy family life.

“We don’t get the balance right every day, but we keep striving to be the best version of ourselves.”
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A town that cares

For Emily, one of the most meaningful parts of raising a family in Ariah Park is knowing her children are surrounded by people who care about them. That support has taken on particular significance following some very sad losses in the town over the past 12 months.

“Whether it’s dropping off a meal, checking in or helping out when someone needs it, people are generous with their time and care,” she says. “You see it in everyday life too, through volunteering, supporting local businesses and getting behind community events.”

Having lived in larger centres, Emily appreciates being able to head out for a run without traffic or a long commute. Eating well and spending time with family and friends remain priorities alongside her work.

For anyone wondering what a country change to Temora Shire could look like, she suggests beginning with the people.

“Spend some time in the area, meet people and get involved,” Emily says. “There are plenty of opportunities, and getting to know the community can help you see what’s possible.”