From our house, Blackbutt Reserve is very close (only a 5min drive). This is where you can visit koalas, kangaroos, kookaburras, emus and wombats.

Magnificent surf beaches are a 15min drive away. If it's too cold for a swim, the walks along the beaches are still fantastic.

Lake Macquarie is also a 15min drive in the other direction. Great for boating, water-skiiing and walks.

There is a bus stop and train station within walking distance from our house which takes you to Newcastle CBD. The large Westfield shopping centre is only a 5min drive. But even better than that, our local shops are only a 10 min walk away. They include a great pub, Euro Patisserie, butcher, florist, pharmacy, mini supermarket, and the city's best coffee at Little Lane Cafe.