Cheryl Thompson grew up on country FarOut but left the bush to become a teacher.

Since she decided to move back home a decade ago this daughter of small business owners, has grown and diversified her business portfolio to an impressive level.

“I’ve been able to create so many different businesses since returning to Barcaldine. 

It is mind-blowing, and I even surprised myself, and they’re continually growing. 

I think it’s mainly because of the open space and the fresh air, and not sitting in traffic all day, it gives you the time and ability to dream and be creative, and make things come true.” she said.

In the last ten years, she has opened a cafe, launched her own line of coffee, established a tourism business, set up a privately-owned student hostel, develop indigenous products and has the contract for ground handling for Qantas Link and Regional Express Airlines in Barcaldine and Longreach.

“You can create whatever you want the opportunity is sitting here dormant ready to ignite,” she said.