Where is a half way point to live between Brisbane & North Lakes that is family orientated & safe?

We are in the process of moving interstate and only have a couple of friends who live in North Lakes. However, as lovely as the houses are there, I don't feel there is much of a 'soul' to the area (being new and all) and would much prefer to live in an area that is halfway between North Lakes and Brisbane. We have a little boy at pre school so ideally would love somewhere that has great parks, nice schools and is really family & kiddie friendly. if anyone can give me ideas to look, I would appreciate it. We would be renting and looking up to $650 (ideally 4 brm house with pool is what we are after). Also, an area accessible by train which can be walked to would be ideal. Many many thanks for any assistance from anyone.