When Diane and her family came to Tasmania for the first time in 2011, little did they know it would become their home seven years later. What’s more, Diane would find a community 30 000+ strong on social media, who now share her love for the island state.

For six years the Reed family made their annual pilgrimage from rural Victoria to Tasmania. With caravan in tow, they’d spend six weeks each year exploring new coastlines, lesser known towns and waterfalls in the wilderness.

Diane and daughter, Katie at Dip Falls in North West Tasmania. Credit: Photo supplied.

“Each time we came, I fell a little more in love,” explains Diane. “I began to surprise myself, feeling emotional when we’d head out on the Spirit of Tasmania up the river. It felt like I was leaving home.”

In January 2017, Diane set up a Facebook group called, The Very Best of Caravan and Camping in Tassie, with insider information and tips for those planning a Tasmanian caravan or camping escape.

“I couldn’t believe the response to this group. It grew very fast,” explains Diane. “It’s such a positive space where people help one another.”

The Tassie-loving Victorian wasn’t finished yet though. With a nudge about the world class fishing in Tasmania, husband Jeff was finally across the line for the move to the island state.

It was time for Diane to create a new Facebook group titled, That’s it! I’m moving to Tassie!! Today, over 5 000 members use the page as a resource for a smooth move to Tasmania, with everything from information about the best removalist for a small coastal town, through to where to find new schools for their children.

In mid-2018 the Reeds made their own move to Tasmania and settled in Penguin, North West Tasmania with great views across Bass Strait.

“We love it here in Penguin,” smiles Diane. “It’s still got that small town feel and a friendly atmosphere.”

“Everyone has been so welcoming, the school community is great and we’ve settled in so easily.”

The Big Penguin, located on the Penguin Esplanade. Credit: Photo supplied.

Positioned between the coastal cities of Devonport and Burnie, the town is also well located for Jeff’s new business venture, a paint-free dent removal service for local vehicles.

While waiting to move into their new home the family took off on a six week trip around Tasmania, with 13 meet ups via Diane’s social media community along the way. Twenty nine people turned up to a small café at one point! Despite having only just moved to Tasmania the Reeds had already met hundreds of local and new Tasmanians.

“What I like about the community is the number of born and bred Tasmanians that want to help newcomers,” says Diane. “It’s a great way for those who are brand new to feel like they are supported and have a network.”

Tasmanians too are discovering new places inspired by the imagery. “Some may have lived all their lives here and not realised just how special their home is. When they hop on these pages and hear people gushing over Tasmania, they come to know what they have in their backyard.”

“It’s restored my faith in humanity that there are people out there who care for each other and want to help each other. If someone finds their dream home in Tasmania, everyone is so happy for them,” concludes Diane. “It’s amazing to watch it unfold. It feels like social media for good.”

Find out more about more by visiting The Very Best of Caravan and Camping in Tassie and That’s it! I’m moving to Tassie!!

Are you interested in making a move? Make it Tasmania.

For information on starting a business in Tasmania look through our stories or visit Business Tasmania.