The region may boast the flattest plains in the southern hemisphere, but Hay Shire is anything but monotonous. Buzzing with friendly locals, heritage buildings and a shared passion for sports, this LGA sits proudly in the Riverina.
And James and Kate Moran wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.
James was living in Botany, Sydney and Kate grew up in Point Lonsdale, Victoria. Though the couple grew up in different states, they eventually found each other and fell in love. It was James who first dipped his toes into teaching in regional Australia. He’d been told about the plentiful work opportunities available in Broken Hill and enjoyed a short three-month stint working in the area in 2016 before travelling through Europe with Kate for the remainder of the year.
When they returned, they wanted to return to regional New South Wales, and Hay Shire was the easy choice.
As the manager of Wilcannia-Forbes AFL since 2018, James has attended multiple diocesan trials in Hay, long before moving to the area. ‘From my first time coming here, the beauty of the town and the river grabbed me, I fell in love with the place!’ he says. ‘I was keeping an eye out for the principal’s job in Hay, so when it came up I knew it would be somewhere we’d love to live.’
So, the couple decided to raise their baby son Lachie in Hay Shire, where James fills the role of school principal of St Mary's Parish Primary School, and high school teacher Kate is currently on maternity leave.
‘We’re excited for Lachie to grow up in such a welcoming town and get into sports,’ explains James. ‘We can’t wait for him to play footy, swim in the pool and the river, and even give other sports a go, like tennis and athletics. We’ll need to get a sturdier boat to teach him to fish in!’
Moving to Hay Shire was an easy choice, but it did take some time. Upon their return from overseas, James and Kat first decided to head to Broken Hill together. ‘Like James, I was looking for somewhere different to start my teaching career,’ explains Kate. ‘We decided on Broken Hill and ended up spending six amazing years out there.’
‘I have family in the Northern Rivers, and moving to the country is something I’ve always wanted to do,’ says James. ‘I loved growing up in Sydney and enjoy going back to see my friends, but the slower lifestyle of the country and the cheaper cost of living were big factors.’ And he doesn’t regret any of it. ‘I loved every minute of the adventure. Then, in 2023, the job came up in Hay at St Mary’s Parish Primary School, I applied and was successful!’
Kate is also grateful their careers led them to Hay. ‘I’m enjoying Hay just as much [as Broken Hill],’ she says. ‘It’s closer to home for both of us and is such a great location to start our family.’
It’s also the perfect place for teaching. ‘Regional schools are brilliant,’ explains James. ‘You’re able to get to know each student and family, and form relationships with them. St Mary’s is a brilliant school, but it was in need of a rebuild after a few tough years.
‘The community is so welcoming, and it’s a brilliant place where every student and family is valued, and we’re able to have a lot of fun! The children see you out and about in town, particularly at local sport, and they’re polite and always say hello.’
The role of principal can be demanding and time-consuming, which makes James even more glad to be living in a regional town. ‘As a principal, it can be tough as it’s a busy job. But living in Hay means I’m not fighting traffic or a commute each day. We’re able to get up early and walk the dog – even though it can be cold in winter! – get organised and still be at work early. Even when the workday is late, you can be home with plenty of time left for sports, training or family time.’
‘[Community] is perhaps Hay’s biggest asset,’ says James. ‘The people have been incredible. From day one, everyone introduced themselves and made us welcome. It made learning so many new names hard! I think the locals really respect those who invest in the town and want to make Hay a great place, like we do.’
The couple also appreciates the many opportunities for young people in the town. ‘There are many community groups that are invested in providing learning opportunities to young people and want them involved, whether it be the RSL, various environmental groups or the local paper,’ says James. ‘The community cherishes its youngest citizens.’
James and Kate have also relished the town’s love of sports, getting involved in netball, footy and water skiing, among others. They love taking their tinny out to fish for Murray Cod, and walking the river trail with Lachie and their dog, Ned.
‘While we knew (hoped!) we’d love it, we settled in so much faster than we thought!’
While James and Kate had expected a few challenges living in a regional town, they’ve found that most have come with a silver lining. Having to travel for airport and maternity services have become an excuse for a day trip. Concerns about a lack of shopping facilities were also unwarranted. ‘You can buy nearly everything in town from the supermarkets, butcher and other stores. It hasn’t been an issue at all.’
The housing situation in Hay meant the pair did spend two years looking, but they’ve finally found the perfect home. ‘We’ve just bought a place near the pool and move in January!’ says James.
Affordability has been a major bonus. ‘We get to travel, save money and don’t miss out on anything as we aren’t paying city prices.’
With a population just shy of 3000 residents, Hay Shire is a well-kept secret. This gorgeous LGA sits in the Riverina Region of south-west NSW. Located in the middle of Hay Plains, it boasts a rich history traversing rail, river boat and agriculture. This means you can spend time on the river participating in the Hay’s Fishing Classic, enjoy amazing local food at the Shear Outback Café or spend a long afternoon riding the rail trail.
Known for its Merino sheep and wool industry (there’s even a Hay Merino Sheep Show each year!), as well as rice, corn and wheat crops, the region is well-placed between Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Adelaide. The Hay Plains offers one of the most unique landscapes in Australia, as well.
Hay’s many museums and its yearly rodeos are an indication of the pride it takes in its historical roots. This sense of community spirit can also be evidenced on the sports fields, where you might just spot James and Kate!
‘You’ll never regret it!’ says James. ‘If you want your children to grow up in a welcoming community, surrounded by genuine people, Hay is the place to be!’
Could Hay be the right place for you? If you’re considering a Country Change, please get in touch. We can offer support and guidance to make your dream a reality!
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