IN AN era when many lament declining rural populations and small towns with dwindling shop fronts, Ashford, in the north of Inverell Shire, is bucking the trend.
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Ashford newcomers, Daryl and Jenny Boyd have opened the doors to their Martyn Street business, TnJ Store, trading seven days a week and offering groceries and small goods, as well as a takeaway menu.
After decades visiting the area for family holidays, the couple has relocated with their two small children from the Sunshine Coast and believes Ashford has a lot to offer.
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Just a few weeks into their new venture, Mr Boyd says they have been overwhelmed with support from locals and have plans to expand their business and also offer a wider array of takeaway options.
Elsewhere, news that Ashford's Commercial Hotel in Albury Street will re-open has been welcomed by locals, who have been without a pub since 2013.
This trend of the re-emergence of businesses in rural communities is backed up by ABS figures, which show a 15.8 per cent jump in registrations for small businesses in the last financial year, with more Australians taking the opportunity to start small businesses in regional areas.
The latest ABS data also shows regional Australia has experienced the highest inflow of new residents since reporting began two decades ago, with more people moving away from the cities, while more regional Australians are also choosing to stay put in their country towns.
Despite being lashed by drought, COVID and recent flooding, Ashford's community of 441 residents remains buoyant, with a trio of new projects set to boost spirits.
Thanks to State Government funding, a new community website is set to launch early in the New Year, to provide community news, tourist information and day-trip ideas for visitors as well as a calendar of events. The website is a joint initiative of Inverell Shire Council and Ashford Business Council.
A funding injection will also see Ashford Tennis Club upgrade the town's clay tennis courts to install a new synthetic grass, all weather surface and Council is working with local contractors on improvements to the caravan park's laundry, barbecue area and amenities which are set to provide modern comforts to Ashford's visitors.
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