Best move from Sydney that will give me a community

I am looking for some insight into the Gold Coast area or Brisbane. From ex Sydney expert movers! I would like to find a suburb similar to Balmain, Rozelle, Lilyfield which is great for families, is around water, has vibrancy of cafes and shopping as well as within 15 km of the CBDs. Any relocation family experiences would be of great interest. I am a single mum so very important to choose a suburb with the potential to meet good families. I work in marketing so am thinking I may need to commute to Brisbane. Any insight into all of the above would be great!