AnnieL

This once-quiet suburb seems to be undergoing rapid change. The village is springing to life with new shops and cool cafes, along with the essentials - not one but two local butchers, delis, bakeries, newsagents, doctors, dentists, physios etc. And the convenience of the new sharp shopping centre if you don't feel like driving down to nearby Southland. The trains run every 10 mins and there are plenty of buses. A library on the high street and a community centre with playgroups and classes a short walk away. But the best thing? The wonderful sense of community. Where your neighbours know your name, and the sweet old ladies walking their dog stop to say hello, the barista at your local knows just how you like your flat white, where your local wine store stocks a fantastic and affordable range of decent reds to go with the award winning sausages made on premises of the award winning butcher. A quick drive to Sandringham and Black Rock beach on the weekend to enjoy a walk and the sunset.

We live on Rowans Road and it's brilliant. We were worried about the potential traffic at first, but it's not even noticeable. A short walk to the station and a quick scoot to the Nepean Highway to drive in to the city. REALLY useful if you have to commute.

It's still relatively affordable compared to Sandringham next door, but others seem to have cottoned on to this little gem and prices are starting to skyrocket. Unsurprising really, you can't argue with the geographical location. Probably more of a wonder that it stayed afforadable for so long.

The downsides? The lack of nightlife! Oh, for a decent bar / restaurant. Or three! Although judging by the growing number of hipsters spotted down the village, this is probably imminent.