WHEN DEB MESTER WAS A LITTLE GIRL, HER FATHER WOULD OFTEN TAKE HER TO MOUNT MACEDON TO FORAGE FOR MUSHROOMS. SHE STILL HAS VIVID MEMORIES OF THE BEAUTIFUL POPLAR-LINED STREETS ON THE DRIVE THERE.

A slower pace

It was this fond recollection coupled with her many years living in the city as a successful chef and caterer that inspired Deb’s tree change to Kyneton. As a child of post-war immigrants that retained the typical European traditions of tending to a vegetable garden, bottling their own tomatoes and making their own sausages. Deb likes the idea of slowing down in the country and reclaiming these practices.

Organic living

Deb has always enjoyed a country lifestyle. As a child, her family went fishing, caught rabbits and grew their own vegetables. She is looking forward to returning to a more organic life and to building her home in Kyneton to cater for pickling, smoking and bottling her own food. As a chef and someone who enjoys her food, Kyneton is also appealing to Deb with its local markets and celebrated Kyneton eateries, wineries and distilleries.

Advantages of a small community

Another drawcard of Kyneton on Riverside is the ready-made community. As a single divorcee, Deb says she feels ‘swallowed up’ in the big city and it can be a safety issue as you age when living on your own. Living in a regional town and a close-knit neighbourhood, it is easier to meet like-minded people and really get to know your neighbours. Deb is also excited by the prospect of becoming involved in local community groups and selling some of her homemade goods at the monthly market, both of which will help her foster connections.

She has found her identity and looks forward to having the time to do more of what she loves and enjoy this new chapter of her life.