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A BOLD SOCIAL EXPERIMENT THAT SEES EIGHT HOUSEHOLDS SWAP CITY LIFE FOR A SMALL REGIONAL TOWN
Maryborough used to be one of the most vibrant, multicultural and wealthy places on earth. Today, this old Goldrush town is one of the least ethnically diverse and most disadvantaged towns in Australia, and its population is ageing fast.
And so, in a unique social experiment, eight households from diverse cultural backgrounds are invited to leave their city lives behind and make this place home.
Making the move are Indian-Australian family the Singhs, South Sudanese born cricket star Akon, young Mumbai-born journalist Prealene, El Salvadorian-born chef Hector and the Rosales family, Philippines-born aged-care worker Claire and her family, Eduardo and Estela who migrated to Australia from Chile and El Salvador 35 years ago, Australian-Syrian teacher Suelaf and her young family, and Nepalese single mum Anki.
Many regional Australian towns are experiencing ageing populations, declining birth rates, major skills shortages and socio-economic disadvantage. As they look for solutions, experts say a key factor in ensuring the future prosperity of these regional towns is the arrival of new migrants.
But how will the newcomers from different backgrounds be welcomed? What happens when households swap the hustle and bustle of the city for a life in sleepy regional town? And can these residents breathe new life into the town?
‘This riveting social experiment has the power to change hearts and minds for the better’ – The Daily Telegraph
