Moving from the city to the country can provide an escape from cramped streets, and a gateway to large backyards and lush landscapes unfettered by skyscrapers.
But regional life can also mean a front-row seat to high-risk weather, including severe storms and flooding.
With spring here and summer on the horizon, Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) has outlined the basics new rural residents need to help protect themselves and their families in the event of a weather emergency.
Deputy controller of the VICSES Daylesford Unit, Michael Sitton, is no stranger to a tree-change, having moved from Melbourne five years ago.
"What you slowly realise is the regional areas aren't geared up to have immediate support around you," Mr Sitton said.
"So as a resident, you need to be prepared yourself, and have an emergency plan or emergency service contacts to get the help you do need."
Small steps that can have a significant impact on a property's emergency preparedness include having a portable radio in the case of a power outage, having spare battery packs charged, and keeping a first aid and snake-bite kit handy.
Cleaning out gutters is crucial, too.
"Back in Melbourne, I used to clean out my gutters once a year if I was lucky. But being around in forests, it's amazing how quickly your gutters can fill with leaf litter and sticks."
Mr Sitton said it's also important to get a qualified arborist in to check large trees, especially if they're located close to home.
"With a lot of rain we've had and are expecting to have … extra spring growth can make trees top heavy … with a bit of wind, trees can fall down."
When storms and severe weather events do hit, Mr Sitton said tying down loose objects around the property was essential.
"The amount of trampolines I've seen flying into neighbours' yards!"
Community connection key
Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows around 15,700 people moved to regional Victorian in 2020–21 alone.
Mr Sitton encouraged new residents to form connections with their community, including meeting the neighbours and the local council.
"It's important as a resident in a rural community to build resilience ... and build up a network of people around you that can help you in an emergency."
He said the SES is "always" looking for volunteers, too.
"There's a role for everyone."
"It's brought me a great network of people in town I probably would never have met otherwise."
More information about planning for emergencies can be found here.
