When Jared and Amy Walker made the bold decision to leave the corporate world behind and purchase a butcher shop in Lockhart Shire, they were seeking more than just a business opportunity. They were looking for a new lifestyle—a slower pace, closer community ties, and the chance to work together as a family. Jared’s story is a perfect example of the power of country life, entrepreneurship, and building a family business in a tight-knit community.
Jared's journey started in the bustling world of corporate banking, where he was climbing the ladder at one of Australia’s biggest banks. However, he was growing disillusioned with the corporate grind. Despite his career success, Jared felt disconnected from customers and yearned for a more meaningful job that could impact people’s lives.
"I wasn’t connecting with the customers like I used to when I was an apprentice butcher," Jared recalls. This realisation sparked a desire to return to his roots—his passion for butchering—and led him to reconsider his career path. With his wife, Amy, they decided to explore a new chapter by moving to Lockhart Shire.
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Lockhart Shire wasn't initially on their radar. Jared and Amy had heard of the town through family connections, but it wasn’t until a chance visit to the area that they began to see the potential. “We went out to Lockhart, and as soon as we arrived, we saw kids riding bikes down the main street, people walking their dogs—everyone was so welcoming,” Jared recalls. The beauty of the town, coupled with the friendliness of the locals, made a lasting impression.
"Lockhart just seemed like the perfect place," he adds. The couple found a butcher shop for sale in the heart of the town—an opportunity that felt right. “We walked into this little butcher shop, and it just screamed ‘husband and wife, let’s do this.’ Nothing to lose,” he says.
The couple’s decision to purchase the shop wasn’t without its challenges, but their shared passion for running a business and being a part of the community made it feel like the right move. They made the purchase and began their new life as small business owners in Lockhart Shire.
One of the most significant benefits of moving to Lockhart Shire has been the overwhelming support from the local community. Jared explains, "The community here is so supportive. In a small town like Lockhart, people genuinely care about each other’s success. They want to know you and your family. They want to see you thrive.”
In Lockhart, Jared and Amy didn’t just find customers—they found friends. “You can walk down the street, and people will stop you to say, ‘Hey, how are you doing? What are you up to?’” Jared says. This warm reception has been a key part of the couple’s journey as they grew their business and their family. The sense of belonging and mutual support is something they hadn't anticipated but have grown to appreciate deeply.
In addition to the business, raising their children in Lockhart Shire has been a fulfilling experience. “The pace of life here allows us to spend so much more time together as a family,” says Jared. “It’s one of the reasons we chose this lifestyle—we wanted to be able to give our kids more, not just materially, but in terms of time and connection.”
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While the transition to small business ownership in a country town wasn’t without its hurdles, Jared and Amy’s commitment to quality and community has paid off. Their butcher shop, now known as "That Butcher Shop," offers more than just traditional butcher services. They’ve built a reputation for providing high-quality meats, fresh cuts, and innovative offerings like grazing boards and pre-packaged meat for busy families.
One of the most rewarding aspects of running their business is the chance to mentor young people in the community. Jared proudly shares that his employees, some as young as 16, are entrusted with important responsibilities, such as managing the shop during the afternoons. “We want to teach them life skills that they might not learn elsewhere, and they have responded so well. We want to be a part of their journey, just like the mentors who helped us.”
What sets Lockhart Shire apart from larger urban areas is the sense of opportunity that comes with a low-overhead, high-reward business environment. “In a big city, you could invest your savings into a business and not see any return,” Jared explains. “But in Lockhart, there’s a real chance to build something special because the community is behind you. They want you to succeed.”
Jared’s experience is a testament to the power of taking risks in a supportive environment. While his initial goal was to climb the corporate ladder in a big city, the Riverina’s lifestyle and opportunities changed his course. "What we’ve built in Lockhart isn’t just a business, it’s a family. Our customers feel that. They see our kids playing in front of the shop, and it makes them feel connected to us,” he says.
The success of their butcher shop is also due to the relationship Jared and Amy have fostered with the local council. “The support from the council has been amazing. They helped us navigate the challenges of starting a business in a small town, and even helped promote our products at regional events,” says Jared. Their success has led to recognition, including national awards for their small goods, which Jared proudly displays in the shop.
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Looking ahead, Jared and Amy plan to continue growing their business while maintaining their strong family ties. "We’re not looking to expand beyond Lockhart. This is where we want to be. We’re building something that will last, not just for us, but for our kids and the community."
While they have plans for the future, Jared and Amy’s focus remains on maintaining the quality of their products and being an integral part of the Lockhart community. "For us, it’s not just about business success. It’s about being a family, running a quality shop, and giving back to the community that has supported us every step of the way."
Jared and Amy Walker’s story is one of risk, reward, and the power of family. Their move to Lockhart Shire wasn’t just about starting a business—it was about creating a life that allowed them to be present with their children, build strong community relationships, and contribute to the local economy. Their story is a powerful reminder that country living offers more than just space—it offers connection, opportunity, and a chance to make a meaningful impact.
If you're considering a move to a regional area, Lockhart Shire offers a wealth of opportunities and a supportive community, just like the Walkers experienced. Take a step toward a brighter future and discover what this unique region has to offer. Reach out to us for more information about a Country Change to Lockhart Shire.
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