‍When “home” starts calling louder than the city‍

For Hannah Alchin, Temora was never just a hometown she left behind at 18 - it stayed stitched into her life through family, old friends, and regular visits back. But after welcoming her daughter in 2022, the pace and price tag of Sydney living sharpened into focus, and the decision became clear.

“I grew up in Temora… so I was always coming back visiting. However, after the birth of our daughter, the reality of Sydney living and prices really hit, and we realised that it was the perfect time to move back, embrace the slower lifestyle and surround ourselves with community.”

It wasn’t only about escaping pressure; it was about stepping into support. The kind that makes parenting feel shared, and everyday life feel lighter.

“It has allowed us to purchase a house, get a dog and raise our growing family in a supportive environment surrounded by friends and family.”

That same support has also made it possible for both Hannah and her partner, Lachlan, to build careers that fit around family life - not at the expense of it.

“Professionally, we have been able to continue to do what we love, while still having the balance of being able to raise our family.”

Building a new chapter: small business, big momentum

Hannah’s return to Temora wasn’t just a lifestyle shift; it was a springboard.

“We are both very career-driven… we knew we would both be able to progress our careers by starting our own businesses.”

Hannah launched Temora Women’s Health Physiotherapy, continuing her professional development while staying grounded in family life helped, as she says, by the simple power of proximity.

For Lachlan, the move back to Temora meant stepping away from the relentless pace of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and into a regional building industry grounded in relationships, trust and local knowledge - without losing momentum or ambition.

“Coming from the fast-paced building game of the Eastern Suburbs in Sydney, it was a huge difference arriving in Temora,” he said.

What followed is a new business, Girling-Butler Constructions, and a story that feels distinctly regional: one opportunity opening the door to the next. Lachlan gives the example of while establishing his business, he received a call from a Year 10 student at Temora High School seeking work experience. Two weeks quickly turned into something more. Impressed by the young student’s maturity and enthusiasm, a new pathway was quickly created for the young student.

“After discussions with his parents and Temora High School, the young student was released early from school and successfully started an apprenticeship…”

It serves as a perfect example of the opportunities regional life can offer, benefiting both families returning to the area and the new generation establishing themselves there.

Why Temora Shire is drawing families and professionals

Ask Hannah what makes Temora Shire attractive to people looking to build or buy, and she doesn’t hesitate:

“It’s affordable house and land prices, big blocks of land and the tight-knit community.”

Temora is proudly community-first - the kind of place where you can feel it in the everyday: from volunteers greeting you at the Town Hall Theatre, to locals showing up for each other in practical ways. There’s also plenty for young families to plug into quickly.

“There is so much for young families to be a part of the community… such as all the activities at the local Library, churches and sporting opportunities for both children and adults.”

And when people visit from the city, the difference is immediate.

“You can embrace the slower pace… more space and the fresh air. It is definitely worth it. When our family and friends from Sydney visit, they always leave feeling refreshed and relaxed.”

Housing growth is creating real choice (and a lot of confidence)

Temora Shire’s growth isn’t abstract; it’s visible in new builds, extensions, and a steady pipeline of work that allows local businesses to plan ahead.

“Temora's housing growth has allowed us to look ahead and book in new builds and extensions for 2026.”

And Hannah is seeing more families choose land and custom design over compromising on the existing market, helped by accessible price points and the appeal of creating a home that truly suits their lifestyle.

“Many people in the market are grasping at the idea of purchasing new land and designing their own home to suit their family's lifestyle.”

Hannah points to two developments gaining real momentum.

“Both Dustin Rose and Highfields Estates are proving to be strong locations for new developments and residents. Highfields is equally desirable at the moment… with many more looking likely to start.”

With both close to schools, supermarkets and the local economy, it’s easy to see why they’re appealing to new residents who want convenience without sacrificing space.

A council that helps you get things done

If you’ve ever dealt with major-city council processes, you’ll appreciate this part. Hannah describes a markedly different experience in Temora - one that prioritises clarity, access, and collaboration.

“Moving to Temora, I was shocked at how accommodating and open to discussion the staff are at Temora Shire Council. I was able to discuss the issue we were having and they were able to offer clear and concise advice…”

“Temora Shire Council and their staff are equally invested in the residents and growth opportunities our town has to offer…”
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In other words: it’s not just growth happening… there’s a genuine willingness to support it!

The Temora difference: friendly, historic, and proudly local

Temora Shire is known for its strong relationship between council and community, and its beautifully preserved streetscape of historic buildings — the kind of town pride you can feel as you walk around.

It also has a reputation that locals wear with a smile Hannah said. “This is a town that truly deserves its title of the friendliest in NSW.”

Add in things like multicultural events like EMBRACE festival, Temora becomes the kind of place that’s easy to love — whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a long-term move.

Hannah’s vision: family-first, community-aligned

For Hannah, the future in Temora is simple and powerful.

“We came to Temora with family on the forefront of our minds, and our vision for the future is family-oriented.”

She speaks warmly about the strength of local schools, childcare, and the sporting community and the way those structures help kids thrive and help parents feel anchored.

“These clubs are the backbone to the successful community Temora has to offer” she added.