The Design Files: The couple living the tree-change dream in an 1890s farmhouse

Who: Tom and Shelley Banders

What: A tree-changers’ farmstead

Where: Strzelecki, South Gippsland, Victoria

Shelley and Tom Banders immediately fell in love with this 1890s farmhouse in Strzelecki (about 130 kilometres south-east of Melbourne), with its three-metre ceilings and charming heritage details.

They were drawn to the South Gippsland area after visiting the region as day-trippers and weekend visitors. On seeing this property, they were immediately awestruck.

“We are surrounded by natural winemakers, micro dairies, single-origin cheesemakers and other niche artisans, producers and growers,” Shelley Banders says.

“However, having space is possibly the best part, we have established over 70 lineal metres of veggie beds, and planted a stone fruit orchard and a citrus grove.

“We are in the process of preparing a berry cane enclosure and designing a coop for our future chickens and ducks.”

After making the move from Melbourne, the couple set out to bring this farmstead into a contemporary era, while still maintaining the honesty and practicality of the traditional farmhouse. The home maintains the original footprint, with one bedroom transformed into an open-shelf larder.

The walls were whitewashed, and the carpet stripped back to reveal beautiful Baltic pine floorboards.

Banders says New Zealand pure wool carpet was installed in the bedrooms out of necessity but “also to generate a soft, dream-like quality to the resting spaces”.

This relaxed, comfortable vibe carries throughout the home, creating a perfect retreat for the two self-described “home bodies”.

“We always try to create an informal, welcoming space that radiates warmth and comfort,” Banders says.

The interior finishes, objects and materials here have been selected for durability and functionality.

For anyone reading along and dreaming of a regional escape, Banders makes an impassioned case for taking the leap.

“Just go for it,” she says.

“We have never felt so grounded, connected and satisfied, ending our day with a glass of local wine, a bit of dirt under our nails and a belly full of real food.

“What are you waiting for?”

How to make a successful tree change

The tree change is an idyllic concept but if 2021 brings the de-centralised workplaces and working-from-home revolution we’ve all been hearing about, that dream country lifestyle could be closer than you think.

The truth is, a successful regional move is usually backed by careful planning and research. Consider the following:

• Rainfall and drought history. If planning a productive farm or even just a lush, green garden, rainfall is paramount.
• Telecommunications. Unfortunately, there are still regional areas with sketchy internet and phone reception. If planning to work from home or perhaps start an online business, be sure to carefully research internet speeds in the area.
• The two-hour rule. Using a map, identify essential services and aim to ensure they’re within two hours of your new home.
• Build community. Successful tree-changers work hard to connect with their new neighbourhood.