* Natural environment: 148 mentions

* Recreational aspects, 97 mentions

* Lifestyle: 151 mentions

* Family: 42 mentions

* Community spirit: 77 mentions

* Work prospects: 19 mentions

* Population size: 95 mentions

* Investment: 11 mentions

As you can see, 'natural environment' and 'lifestyle' had overwhelming responses.

This probably indicates where the strengths of the areas attractions lie.

Positive responses to ‘recreational aspects', ‘population size' and ‘community spirit' indicate further the strong attractions of the area.

It seems that many people return to the area to live, or after holidaying here for many years, select this as their retirement place.

The great range of activities available, particularly in relation to waterways, is rated highly.

Access to beaches, in appropriate areas, for fishermen, vehicles and dogs, makes it attractive to a number of people.

The sense of safety and the quietness of a village atmosphere are registered by many.

Our proximity to Sydney and Newcastle is seen as a positive aspect, and highway improvements are appreciated.

Other points that registered as attractive features were the lack of hills, heritage aspects, the small-scale cottages and the absence of multi storey buildings.

Being born here is often a point of pride and it must be recorded that this area mainly being populated by Australians has its attractions for some.

Many of the attitudes demonstrated in this section are repeated even more strongly in other sections.

It becomes very clear how this community feels about the area and how strong attitudes are towards some aspects.

The next report will be on changes that are of concern to residents and visitors.