Went to Darby Bar & Grill for a friend's birthday on a Thursday night. Because it was quiet, they had set aside the upstairs function room for dinner. It was a very nicely decorated room, very plain but stylish, giving it a nice atmosphere. The 2 staff members that were behind the bar were very nice. Once everyone sat down, they came and took orders from a set menu of Breads, $10 meals, $15 meals & $20 meals. My partner and I ordered Turkish bread with dips, a chicken schnitzel ($15) & lamb cutlets ($20). For the amount of people (around 20-25), service was quite prompt. The servings were a bit small, but were still very filling. They had a good selection of drinks, and some nice cocktails. It was a great night out.

Approximate cost: $10-$20

A great little bakery with a huge variety of pies, cakes, slices & bread. They make the most delicious lamingtons. Very reasonably priced. Sometimes the young staff don't seem to know what they're doing, but always do their best. They can arrange birthday/wedding cakes at a very good price.

Glen is a passionate driving instructor whose only goal is to get you out of his car & into yours. You can pick from a manual or automatic. He is always happy to accommodate your driving lesson, whether it's at night or on weekends, he's happy to give you a lesson. I wouldn't have my licence if it wasn't for Glen.

Approximate cost: $50

Shindigs sends you into overload - so much party stuff - not enough parties to buy it all! Whether you're organising a Wedding, a 21st, a 50th or just a get together - Shindigs is where to go to get what you need. They stock frozen food & cakes, balloons, plates, cutlery, toys, lollies, and lots of themed decorations. The friendly staff are happy to help you with whatever you need advice on.

Flew to Melbourne from Newcastle. Flight was on time & no delays. Easy check in. Flight attendants were very professional & helpful. Was impressed by the TV screens in the headrests, which you could watch a movie or just follow the flight. Easy departure on arrival at Melbourne.

Approximate cost: $70

This small mechanic is located within the Caltex Petrol Station. Dean is the head mechanic, and has regularly been servicing my car for over 2 years now. He treats me with respect, and as a female, I don't feel he is ripping me off. He looks after Pink Slips for rego aswell. He has become increasingly popular, and you have to book in 2 weeks in advance for your service. My car is always ready within a couple of hours of dropping it off.

A good quality surf shop that has a wide variety of well known brands. Always has good specials & sales. Stocks good quality watch brand Nixon. Has a large selection of ladies clothing, wallets, handbags & shoes. Owner is very nice, but young hip staff need a lesson in customer service.

A great little chinese restaurant/takeaway. Has a special for lunch - for $7 you can pick two dishes with either rice or noodles. Does a delicious special fried rice & combination chow mein. The staff there are always nice and friendly, and always say hello even if you're just walking past.

Approximate cost: $12

A beautiful little cafe situated on Stockton Beach. Does a delicious breakfast & lunch. Reasonably priced. Service was a bit slow, but every time I go for breakfast, it's always packed, so you're better off ringing to make a reservation. Has a good variety of breakfast food, with vegetarian options.

Approximate cost: $8-$15

Wonderful website packed with lots of helpful hints from other members. Wonderful community, always offering support. Option of free membership or paid membership. Paid membership offers more access to the website. Staff are always very quick to act on problems/questions/comments/compliments.

Approximate cost: $47