Wagga isn’t just a place to live – it’s a place to belong

Watching your child giggle under gum trees. Spending lazy afternoons splashing in the local river. Hiking nearby summits on crisp country mornings. These are the moments that have made the Rehman family pause, and feel gratitude for their country change.

They’re the moments that have made Wagga Wagga feel like home.

‘Wagga has been incredibly kind to us,’ explains proud father and husband, Malik. ‘We’ve made friends who feel like family, and neighbours always ready to lend a hand.’

Malik and his wife Mehwish believe the Riverina gem is a wonderful place to raise a family. ‘It’s that rare mix of simplicity and security,’ Malik explains. ‘Everything’s within a short drive – schools, parks, shops, healthcare.’

But despite being a thriving regional centre, Wagga still retains its country charm and tranquillity. ‘I love the calm. I love being able to drive across town without traffic. I love that we’re midway between Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, yet it never feels rushed. Most of all, I love the safety and the sense of belonging – the way people genuinely look out for each other.’

The right opportunity at the right time

Of course, making the ‘country change’ has been quite the journey for the family.

Moving from Pakistan to Australia was a big change initially, and with family remaining overseas, it sometimes felt challenging. ‘Back home, I grew up surrounded by extended family; moving overseas, we had to figure things out ourselves,’ says Malik.

And of course, they didn’t make the country change immediately. The couple spent six years in Sydney, adding to their family with the arrival of their son Zayyan. ‘[Sydney] was exciting, fast-paced – but also hectic in ways that made us crave something different.’

A job opportunity brought the family to Wagga Wagga two-and-a-half years ago. ‘When I was offered a role at Daimler Trucks Wagga, it felt like the right opportunity at the right time,’ says Malik. ‘I’d always wanted to work closely with brands like Mercedes-Benz and Freightliner. But it wasn’t just about the job – I was curious to experience life in regional Australia. I’d heard about the slower pace, community spirit and open spaces, and I wanted that for our family.’

Malik has experienced impressive career growth in his short time in the regional centre. ‘Moving to Wagga wasn’t just a change of scenery – it was a launchpad. I started as Parts Manager at Daimler Trucks Wagga and, within two years, was promoted to Group Parts Manager.

‘Being here during a period of company growth gave me the chance to grow too. I’ve seen friends start businesses, take risks and thrive. Wagga rewards hard work and offers space for everyone to succeed.’

A healthier, happier way of life

It wasn’t just career prospects awaiting the family in Wagga, but also lifestyle opportunities.

‘The difference [in lifestyle] is night and day,’ explains Malik. ‘In Sydney, long commutes left me drained. Here, I come home with energy – to play with Zayyan, go for a walk or enjoy dinner together. We’ve gained time – real, quality time – and life feels healthier, more balanced, and safer.’

Wagga’s abundance of education, sporting and leisure facilities has also been a pleasant surprise for the young family. ‘We’ve been surprised by how many school and activity options there are here.

‘In Sydney, life was so hectic, I barely had time for sports. Here, I’ve picked up squash and badminton again. With Charles Sturt University nearby, there are lots of community sports and events. From cycling and cricket to hiking and football, there’s something for everyone. And as a dad, it’s comforting to know everything we need is just minutes away.’

Malik says that since their move to Wagga, life has become manageable again. ‘Mehwish even learned to drive here – something she never felt confident doing in Sydney. I’ll never forget her first solo drive with Zayyan – she was beaming with pride. That independence and safety are priceless.’

Nestled on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, with beautiful parks, Lake Albert and close to The Rock Nature Reserve (Kengal Aboriginal Place), Wagga boasts plenty of natural attractions. Many have been the backdrop for special family memories for the Rehmans. ‘With spots like the Botanic Gardens, Wagga Beach, strawberry picking and sunset walks around the lake, we’re creating lifelong memories together.’

Its unique location, sitting between capital cities, is another convenient feature. ‘With Sydney and Melbourne just four to five hours away, we’re never too far from celebrating big moments with friends. Every time someone travels through, they stay with us and we get to show off the beauty of Wagga, Albury and the surrounds.’

But beyond all of its impressive attributes, it’s the sense of community that has made Wagga feel like home for the Rehmans. ‘Behind it all is the peace of knowing that help, if ever needed, is close by. Wagga isn’t just a place to live – it’s a place to belong,’ says Malik.

‘Every friendly nod from a stranger, every quiet drive with no traffic, and the peace of having healthcare nearby as new parents – it all added up. Wagga didn’t just welcome us; it embraced us.’

Malik can sum up Wagga in just three words: ‘Opportunity. Peace. Freedom.’

Advice for fellow country changers

‘It’s a big decision, and the unknown can feel overwhelming. But if you’re even thinking about it, I’d say take the leap. Regional life doesn’t mean giving things up; it means gaining what you didn’t know you were missing!

‘You can still have a great career and good income – but with bigger homes, cleaner air, more time with your family, and a sense of calm you won’t find in a big city. And you’ll be surrounded by people who genuinely care.’