Real-time documentation

Our journey to Australia

Every step, every decision, every hurdle, from the idea to arriving in Byron Bay.

23 June 2026Departure, Christian flies out first
26 July 2026Family follows

Current chapter

Arrived in Byron Bay

I have been here on my own since 25 June. The first days were an emotional roller coaster; by now daily life has settled in: house sitting in the hinterland, plus the job and sponsor search. On 26 July Lucy and the kids follow, and then we are a family of four again.

A note on the path: We're entering on a tourist visa (eVisitor 651) and looking for a 186 sponsor only after we arrive. If no sponsor is in place within three months, we fly back. It's a deliberate bet, not a recommendation. Why we're taking this path anyway.

Where it all started: our field.
All the luggage for the fresh start.
Kangaroo with a joey.
The four of us.
Welcome to Byron Bay.

  1. 31 December 2025

    Restaurant "die farm" closed

    Seven years of our own restaurant. A hard but right step.

    Done
    Where it all started: our field.

  2. February 2026

    PTE English test passed

    Proficient is enough for the visa. It was not easy, but it worked.

    Done

  3. February 2026

    TRA Skill Assessment passed

    Especially involved as a self-employed applicant. The documentation was the hardest part.

    Done

  4. March 2026

    Migration agent hired

    Professional support for the visa process.

    Done

  5. April 2026

    Notice given on the flat

    Move-out end of July. It is getting real.

    Done
    All the luggage for the fresh start.

  6. 23 June 2026

    Departure, Christian flies out first

    Going ahead alone: find a job and a sponsor, sort out housing and a car.

    Done
    Kangaroo with a joey.

  7. 26 July 2026

    Family follows

    Lucy, Joris and Linnea fly out to Australia. The family is together again.

    Planned
    The four of us.

  8. August 2026

    New life in Byron Bay

    Arriving, settling in, finding new routines. A new chapter begins.

    Planned
    Welcome to Byron Bay.
  • Byron Bay