When Amanda Elvy packed up her life in Griffith and moved to Darlington Point in the Murrumbidgee Council area, she thought she was simply helping her sister through a tough time. What she found was a new home, a new business, and a community that welcomed her with open arms.
“I was born in Sydney and relocated with my parents in 1995 to a little town called Rankins Springs,” Amanda shared. “I’ve always been in a rural setting now for as long as I can remember. My sister bought a house here, and at the time, my mum was passing with pancreatic cancer. As a single parent, my sister asked me to go with her for support as she had a new baby — and I thought it was a great idea, so I went too.”
That decision, made from love and family connection, has transformed into something much bigger. Today, Amanda runs Recover DP Coffee Shop — a cosy, welcoming café in the heart of Darlington Point — and has become one of the town’s most loved locals.
Nestled along the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, Darlington Point (affectionately known as The Point) offers all the natural beauty and calm of country living — but with a surprising vibrancy. The town is a gateway to river adventures, wildlife encounters and community connection.
“It’s a relaxed, family-orientated town,” Amanda said. “Everyone is looking out for each other’s children. I’m the eldest of nine myself and have always been close to my family, so it’s almost like being at home. There is a real sense of community and belonging. I love Darlington Point.”
Her kids still attend school in Griffith, commuting daily by bus. “They didn’t want to change schools, but they’ve made so many friends with the local kids,” she smiled. “It’s the best of both worlds.”
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At Recover DP Coffee Shop, Amanda’s passion for people and her love of community shine. The café has quickly become a local hub — a place where people gather for a chat, a caffeine fix, and a sense of connection.
“Being involved in the community has helped me meet new people, network and create friendships,” Amanda said. “I enjoy my small business and having a space where people can meet, relax and enjoy the atmosphere.”
Amanda is also a familiar face on the sidelines of the local footy field. “I used to coach many years ago when my eldest son first started playing back in 2012,” she shared. “It was great to get back to what I know and love, coaching with the DP Roosters.”
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Regional life brings a different rhythm — one Amanda has learned to embrace.
“I actually own two local businesses,” she explained. “One located in Griffith and another here in Darlington Point. I’m very lucky to have a village. My staff in Griffith are wonderful and really hold the reins in, so I can focus on my little café here. My sister helps with my younger children at home in the mornings, and evenings are spent at the gym, swimming lessons and footy.”
That “village” extends beyond family. Amanda has found a supportive network of locals who step up when needed. “Travelling for after-school sports was tricky when I first moved,” she admitted, “but it’s become easier having family, friends and other parents to help along the way.”
She’s also helping nurture a new local book club — a quiet nod to her belief that connection comes in many forms.
Moving from the busier pace of Griffith to the serenity of Darlington Point has taught Amanda to pause and appreciate the moment.
“When I first moved, I was really too busy to stop and take in my space,” she reflected. “I didn’t expect to create the friendships that I have, because I was always so busy. Living here and having a business here has really taught me to slow down — and I’m extremely grateful for that.”
That gratitude runs deep. For Amanda, the past year has been more than a relocation — it’s been a renewal.
“Darlington Point is a great little town and very welcoming,” she said. “Creating a business here has been very welcomed too. I plan on staying here. I’ve found a sense of home in my local community. As to what comes next, I’m unsure — but I have big plans. Come what may.”
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Life really is better in the Murrumbidgee. Whether you choose Coleambally, Jerilderie or Darlington Point, you’ll find a region full of heart, hospitality and opportunity. Here, there’s time to breathe, space to grow and a community that makes you feel instantly at home.
For Amanda, that’s exactly what she’s found — a place to belong, to build, and to dream.
“I think it was fate that brought us here,” she smiled. “And I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Darlington Point may be small in size, but it’s rich in heart — and in adventure.
From riverside walks to wildlife encounters, there’s always something to discover:
Whether you’re casting a line, paddling a kayak, or just watching the sunset from the riverbank, life here invites you to slow down — something Amanda has learned to embrace wholeheartedly.
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When asked what advice she’d give to other families considering a Country Change, Amanda’s answer was heartfelt and grounded in her own journey.
“Moving to the country or anywhere for that matter is always going to have challenges,” she said. “Small communities are always so welcoming with open arms. It takes a village to raise a family — and that village is found in the country. There are so many great opportunities for our children, and better work and lifestyle opportunities too.”
If you’re considering a move to the Murrumbidgee region — whether for work, family, or a better way of life — we’d love to help you explore your options.
👉 Find out more: www.countrychange.com.au/our-places/murrumbidgee-council
📩 Have questions or need assistance? Contact the Country Change team to start your journey today.
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