Originally Posted by flip

Hi, proximity to train station depends on where you live in the suburb. Mitcham's our nearest and only 4 or 5 minutes by car. There's also a pretty good bus route just a couple of minutes away which drops you off on Collins Street (nearer to most offices than the trains and takes only a few minutes longer).

In all the Melbourne suburbs there are lovely play areas where kids play and grown-ups get to know each other.

As for schools, our kids are going to North Ringwood Primary School (http://www.ringwoodnorthps.vic.edu.au/). We're really pleased as it's great academically, socially and with extra-curricular stuff. Donvale is also close to very good Catholic schools (Whitefriars for boys high school and St Annes primary school) which are cheaper than private but offer that private feel. Apparently you don't have to be Catholic but may have to join a waiting list.

Out of interest how old are your kids?

CBD will have the most vacancies but people work in IT all over. Maybe Box Hill and Ringwood would have positions. Have you asked people yet to advise you of agencies to forward your cv to? Would you want to spend time on your reccie at interviews?

By the way, Melbourne Cup Day is Tuesday November 6 so everywhere non-touristy (schools, offices, etc. will be shut on that day) you may already have left? but many people take the long weekend off and some schools have a curriculum day on the Friday before. Just letting you know in case it affects some of your plans.

Flip

Originally Posted by Leeo

Thanks to everybody for their help!

Flip - My kids are 3 and 6 so only only will be at school to start with.

I haven't asked any advice about agencies yet....any suggestions? I would love to spend some time going to interviews!

Originally Posted by Leeo

We are in Melbourne from the 25th October and are staying for 6 days, so it will be a bit of a rush! Then we're off to Sydney for the touristy bit of the holiday! Couldn't see any 'meet ups' for that time but if anyobdy knows any different please let me know!

Originally Posted by Shakmaty

Do you need picking up from the airport?

Originally Posted by flip

I'd post a new thread asking about IT agencies and keep looking at Seek and MyCareer.com.au. We're in a different field altogether so can't help with the best agencies.

If you want to call over for a coffee while you're in the area you can email or pm me. If 6 year old is a boy even better. Good luck with your investigations.