Boyup Brook, WA 6244

First but foremost; it's peaceful and quiet! If you come from that cesspit called Perth, Boyup Brook will shock you to your core. There's no bogans in V8's tearing up the street, you don't have to worry about getting beaten up walking home from the pub late at night and your neighbours probably NOT a serial killer or kitten murderer. There are many nice places to relax by the river and to take things easy. The air is clean and the weather usually is pretty good, although it gets very dry in summer. The local IGA is reasonably good and is always improving. Fantastic place for people looking to retire but know what to expect from living rural. Not so great for young people as career opportunities and educational facilities are pretty limited. It's pretty sad to see allot of the big generational farms being cut up and sold when the grandparents die because the kids don't want anything to do with farming or rural lifestyle.
Now the bad stuff...
Folk around these parts are rather fond and protective of their religious beliefs (About 4-5 churches here), and if your not swinging with the Jesus crowd, you can forget about socialising or making eye contact with 50% of Boyup Brook's residents. Generational families rule this land, and generally have vested interests in every nook and cranny of Boyup Brook's limited economy and political circles. Be sure not to upset the apple cart. Employment prospects are well and truly limited, it's not about what you know but who in Boyup Brook if you want a job (Unless you want to work at IGA). If your willing to travel to Collie (85+ Km's) away to work at the power station or alumina refinery, then you will be fine. There is no middle class here, your either at the bottom or at the top.

Fantastic sporting facilities, great schools, friendly people. Just needs a larger population of families.

A beautiful quiet town. Bridgetown was like this 20 years ago. Real people, passionate gardeners, and honest people.

Don't come here if your looking for latte and five course degustation - yet ! Its got a very good IGA, and all your needs are met. There is actually some six wineries within a 30 minute radius, with varying levels of quality and all made by people passionate about wine for different styles. The valley is pretty, rainfall is consistent and often way more than Perth. Clay soils and some very good loam mean that gardens here can do very well. Check it out in autumn and spring for the mass of colour and greenery abound. Cool nights and cool mornings mean great gardening. Beautiful roses. Check out the tulips in September - take the open Garden tours - and look out for the fantastic Blue Wrens.

I love this little town. Take drives from here out towards Denmark - its one hour from Frankland River passing through one of the secrets - beautiful National park,and then some great Frankland River rieslings. One hour to Ferguson Valley, 45 Minutes to Balingup, 20 minutes to Bridgetown - 45 minutes to Nannup. An hour ish from Pemberton and Fab Pinot. Its definately a well kept secret.