North Side or South Side - Which is the best side of Canberra?

Both absolutely have their benefits. North side has more urban development and focus on sustainable family living (think smaller blocks, newer homes, plenty of modern parks for kids). South side has older homes with larger blocks and an "old school" community minded feel (such as in Hughes, when a new resident moves into the street, the locals organise a welcome barbecue). Of course the biggest benefit is Canberra is 30 minutes end to end, so you can happily live anywhere!