Expert: Ian Smith - 10/31/2009

Question
Ian,
  I have always wanted to move to Australia and when i'm done with school i know i want to live there. Basically i am an aspiring photographer... i love nature, animals, and all this stuff that God created... I get the vibe that Australia would be the right place for me... i need some pointers on where to live... i want to be out away from the cities but i still want to be close enough (couple hours) to visit the major cities every once in a while. I really like the ocean but also want to be somewhere filled with green... If you think you know an awesome place that fits most of what i'm asking i really appreciate it. Thanx, Mikal

Answer
Dare I say that where I live might suit you perfectly.  Only two hours from Sydney yet situated on several attractive beaches and with rainforest an hour away and Port Stephens just up the road.
Other than that I might suggest the Gippsland region of Victoria or the Southern Highlands of New SOuth Wales might suit your purposes.  Another place that is superb is Tasmania.  There are many nature photographers down there.
I have many photographs on a site called virtualtourist.com that might help you decide.  I'm in there under iandsmith.  
You have to remember that Australia is a huge country and the wonderful colours of the outback might take well over a day's drive before you even start to get close.  
Personally I would aim for the Great Dividing Range somewhere because you will have access not only to rainforest but also the inland.
If you need more detail please feel free to contact me further.
Cheers, Ian Smith