New Beginnings in Tassie
A Life-Changing Decision
In 2022, we made the life-changing decision to move from bustling Sydney to the serene landscapes of northern Tasmania. Packing our entire lives into a single shipping container felt like embarking on an epic adventure. It was surreal to think that a metal box, filled with all our possessions, was going to be hoisted onto a ferry. Yet, amidst the strangeness, there was an unexpected thrill—our whole life was setting out on a new journey to Tassie.
The hardest part? Saying goodbye. Hugging our five kids, family, and friends, promising countless visits, and holding back tears—that was truly the most difficult moment.
The Journey Begins
With hearts full of excitement, we set off on an 11-hour drive to Victoria to catch the Spirit of Tasmania. Our two dogs, snug in the back seat, made it feel like a family road trip. After a few pit stops, we finally reached Geelong and drove our car up the ferry ramp—an unforgettable moment! I was a bit anxious about leaving the dogs in special crates in the ferry’s belly, but they handled it like champs. Maybe the gentle rocking lulled them to sleep because they snoozed peacefully, like little angels.
But the real magic happened when Tasmania’s rugged coastline emerged through the morning mist. It felt as if the island itself was welcoming us with open arms. Stepping off in Devonport, letting our dogs sniff Tassie’s ground for the first time—it hit us. This wasn’t just an idea or a dream anymore. It was real. We had arrived.
... One More Road Trip
Our rented house still empty and our furniture en route, one of us had to stay behind with the dogs (me) while my husband made the return trip to Sydney. He needed to pack and load Bluey into a second shipping container and board the Spirit once again (déjà vu). Thankfully, he wasn’t alone—my son joined him, turning the journey into a fun Defender boys’ road trip, filled with spontaneous stops and laughter along the way. I know this because they sent me all the photos!
Discovering Launceston
So for the next two years, we called Launceston—or “Lonnie,” as the locals fondly say. Surrounded by charming heritage streets and incredibly friendly faces, it was the perfect place to unwind and plan our next move: finding our forever home. During this time, we uncovered Northern Tasmania’s hidden gems—cosy coffee spots, picturesque dog-walking trails, and local secrets that made us fall in love with the area. We also learned to let go of our stressed, fast-paced ways, fully embracing the Tassie lifestyle. And yes, the “Tassie clock” is real. For once, we weren’t racing against time. We were simply living in the moment.
Challenges Along the Way
Like all adventures, ours didn’t go exactly as planned. Unforeseen circumstances forced us to relocate Bluey’s warehouse three times! It was exhausting and tested our patience to the limit. However, looking back, we realise those tough days are now just funny stories we love to retell. The third time was lucky, and we now absolutely adore our new warehouse. It was definitely worth the troubles.
Home at Last
Now that we’re finally settled, we truly appreciate Northern Tasmania’s wild, raw, and beautifully untouched coastlines—just the way we love them. Standing on endless stretches of sand, with the wind in our hair and our dogs running free, we’re constantly reminded that every chaotic moment getting here was absolutely worth it. We’re finally home. Tasmania is simply amazing.
Emma X
