I moved into a rural area from Sydney. I thought I would share some satisfying activities I have participated in.
Bird Watching
I enjoy viewing a broader range of bird life.
I have seen kites, Eastern Rosella, black cockatoos. A heron came to our backyard for a few days. The heron became fond of some mirrored windows. It used to preen itself and watch its reflection.
I looked after a beautiful Sacred Kingfisher. He was semi-conscious near the shopping centre. I took him home and a lady from WIRES came to pick him up. He was awake by the time she arrived and anxious to get out of his box. The lady said the bird would have a flight test in the afternoon. He would be taken to the bush if well enough. I missed the company of the Kingfisher and hope he did well. It was such a treat to be able to view his plumage up close. The aqua colour was beautiful. I have to consult the bird book to learn the names of any new birds that appear.
Binoculars helped me to watch a pair of wedge tailed eagles. They have appeared at times over the paddocks beyond my back fence. Watching them soaring in the afternoons is a cheering activity.
I like to put out some wild bird seed mix. This has encouraged many birds around the yard. It is a thrill when a king parrot comes.
Exercise
Walking is nice here, in the early mornings.
The air here is not as polluted as it is in the city. Bike riding is popular.
Ballina has extensive paths beside the waterways.
Amateur Astronomy
I have installed some apps onto my device that show where stars are and their names. It is such a simple thing to do. It makes star gazing so much more interesting.
I research any expected astronomic events. I watched an eclipse and an alignment of planets from the backyard. There is less light interference living at the edge of town.
Photography
Sunsets and other sky features are easier to witness here. There are more open spaces than in the city. It is easier to take photographs without buildings in the way.
Creativity and Craft
I have found an outlet in doing watercolours of scenes from nature.
We have a beautiful walk in a rainforest near here called Victoria Park. The rainforest is a great place to meditate. I like to spend an afternoon there when the weather is hot.
Services
Find a place with a reliable internet and phone service. Adequate shopping, and accessible health services is essential.
A relocation can then be a workable prospect for city dwellers.
Research the area first
It is important to research where you are going before deciding to move. There is of course some culture shock moving from the city to a rural area. It takes longer to get to services than in the city. Some things are just less convenient. It can be a good decision if healthy living is more important.