Expert: Frank Denison - 7/13/2008

Question
G'day Frank
I am moving to Brisbane in October 08 from Liverpool in the UK. My wife and two sons (ages 10 and 13) will be with me.
We would appreciate advice on suburbs, the better ones and those to avoid - up to 45mins away from the CBD by public transport.
Any advice on whether to choose private or state schools for the boys would be great and if you know of particular schools with a good reputation, that would be even better.
The boys are big into soccer, cricket, swimming and table tennis so local sports clubs are a must.
Many thanks in advance for your help
Neil

Answer
Neil,
    The suburbs on the northern suburbs I would recommend are below.
The closer you are to the city obviously the more expensive it will be
to purchase a house.

Up to 15 mins from the city - Albion, Eagle Junction, Wooloowin,
Hamilton, Ascot, Windsor, Wilston, Newmarket

Up to 30 mins from the city - Toombul, Nundah, Northgate, Enoggera,
Mitchelton

Up to 45 mins from the city - Petrie, Lawnton, Bray Park, Kallangur,
Ferny Grove, Sandgate, Shorncliffe.

The only suburbs I would recommend on the south side are Mount Gravatt,
St Lucia, Bardon, Milton, Taringa, Auchenflower.

The State schools are struggling with numbers and volumes so as a parent I would suggest Private schools are the way to go depending on finances.

There are many local sports clubs in all areas

I am sorry the reply took so long, I have been very busy.

Regards Frank