utopian
Reviews
"2023 and the demographic is changing"
Kempsey has always had social issues and still does, though things are changing rapidly. The community sector has worked hard to support people out of disadvantage-some have embraced this, though of course, some struggle to rise above their demons. Security still needs to be maintained-cars need to be locked, as do homes, sheds, gates etc.
In the last couple of years, the demographic has certainly changed, with city dwellers coming in and embracing the tree change, fresh air, beautiful coast and seizing the many opportunities the Macleay offers. Unfortunately, many born and bred locals have been priced out of the market and many social housing homes have been destroyed by vandals or arson, leaving those with economic disadvantage to leave to other areas. Current rental vacancy rate in KMC sits at 0.05%, which is great for investors, but not for those needing to rent an affordable abode.
It is now April 2023 and things are improving. House prices have skyrocketed and the demographic is changing and bringing a fresh breath of forward-thinking air. For those that don't want to improve their circumstances, things are becoming too hard in Kempsey, so they are moving on. Housing is near impossible to find for renters who don't have income from wages, though house prices to buy are the cheapest left on the Coast, so newbies are buying up the town while they can. I am excited for the future of this town. It really is improving-but has some work to go.
The weather is just perfect-sub tropical, meaning long summers, mild winters and gardens that thrive on neglect. Beautiful Macleay River gives cool breezes on hot summer afternoons and the easterly wind blows in the refreshing sea air from Crescent Head.
35 min drive to Port Mac for great shopping, shows, restaurants and the vibe of the holiday makers. Or head north to the eclectic town of Bellingen or the thriving Coffs district.
I love this town and my neighbours and can't wait for it to be a calm, inclusive, thriving town and a melting pot of cultures and lifestyles. We do need more houses though!! Builders and tradies are so welcome!
Who lives here?
- Professionals
- Singles
"So glad we made the move!"
Such a clean, pretty town. Every type of restaurant you can think of, every grocery shop (Coles, Aldi, Woolies and IGA) Good shopping centres with Big W, nail bars, bargain shops etc.
Such affordable housing, both to buy and rent. Where else within 90 minutes of a major city (Newcastle) could you buy a good home under 200k?
Couldnt be happier and so glad we moved here!!
Who lives here?
- Families with kids
We bought a little place in Muswellbrook South, just off Wollombi road-We moved here last December. Haven't had a problem. Friendly, welcoming neighbours, but we just keep to ourselves and potter in the garden of our bargain abode. I'm sure I could find trouble if I went looking for it...but we stick to ourselves, enjoy the pubs, clubs and restaurants on the weekend and our garden that is blooming in the nutrient rich soil.
I have only ever heard bad things on this website...never anything in real life. And we are right near the so called "action/rough area" I think the old adage is very true... any place is what you make it, and with the opportunities here..We have made it an absolute Utopia!
Hope things improve for you, Jimmy.
So sorry jimmdyd3, but this is so typical. People saying they never see this stuff just aren't looking! It's happening, and it's happening to good people! I hope you find somewhere safe!
Yes! Like anywhere, if you LOOK for trouble, you will find it! If you live peacefully and mind your own business, you have a far better chance of leading a serene existence.
loul2 Sadly, this is NOT true. As I have previously stated, I am a quiet, easy going woman, NOT looking for trouble, but it made no difference. I DID keep myself to myself and it made no difference. I was recovering from PTSD which became full blown again living with those monsters. IF YOU ARE THERE YOU ARE A TARGET! Don't presume that because you haven't experienced the horror of living there, that it doesn't exist. IT DOES!!
loul2 Need an example? It got so bad that I spent an afternoon yelling at the neighbourhood to leave me the f**k alone, that I keep to myself, that I never bother anybody, and to JUST. LEAVE. ME. ALONE!!!!! Made no difference, because monsters have no sympathy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mmn hmm. Say no more. I got the picture. Including from your incessant rants in previous thread.
Hope your now receiving the help you need. Far, far away from Muswellbrook.
loul2 - a nasty response. rayleec HAS had a bad experience and is just trying to warn people about the potential of being as 'unlucky' with neighbours as she has. Do you get so nasty with everyone who doesn't agree with you? I think it's you who needs the help you suggested!!
Yup. I don't think most people move to a place looking for trouble. There are exceptions of course, but I do think that some locals with nothing better to do like to pick on the "newbies" to let them know their place in the town's pecking order. Looking at Muswellbrook as an investment/retirement option...we'll see...
Not fair to say someone is looking for trouble. When I first moved to Muswellbrook, I rented a townhouse in the south. Always minded my own business (I had one child and was pregnant then so definitely wasnt interested in meddling in anyones business) but one of the units always had loud parties and one night, were fighting drunk outside near my car and throwing beer bottles. I then bought a place in the north side and found the environment a lot better there but yes lets respect someone elses experience and not put it down to them looking for trouble
Maybe read Raylees comment and why I responded with what I wrote!! Her post was- " People saying they never see this stuff just aren't looking! It's happening, ".
Where did you move to ?