To move or not to move?

I'm thinking of moving down here. My Sydney friends think I may be lonely. Am single 51 and have dogs (mad about big dogs!) Has anyone moved from Sydney Eastern Suburbs to this area and how have they found it? One of the main reasons to move is to live in a community. Am a bit over Eastern Suburbs attitudes and manners. And wouldn't mind a few Poms/Europeans around as am a Pom. But have lots of Aussie friends as well - just like the mix.Don't like going out at night much except to friends' houses so lack of night life will not be a problem. Cheers - any advice would be great.