Family friendly spot to the west

ANICE distance away from the city without being too remote and with a population that’s rapidly rising, Redlynch is a popular option for young families.

The outer western suburb takes in the valley stretching from Freshwater to Crystal Cascades.

It tends towards separate houses on larger blocks (although there are some older family homes) and there are some remaining rural activities in the suburb. There are numerous housing developments in Redlynch geared towards firsthome buyers.

The suburb is home to a large holiday park that provides an opportunity to get a feel for the area before you buy (or a convenient spot to put up out-oftown visitors).

Also in Redlynch is a horse park. The riding school has been around since 2007 and offers riding lessons, pony rides, school holiday programs, equineassisted therapy programs, trail rides, agistment and part-time horse leases.

One of Redlynch’s best-kept secrets is Crystal Cascades, a secluded freshwater swimming hole. Nestled in the rainforest, this lovely spot consists of several small waterfalls that flow into large pools surrounded by boulders. The area is a favourite with locals, who often claim the water stays icy cold, even in the middle of the sultry wet season.

There are picnic tables in the area as well as a toilet block.

The suburb doesn’t have a library but nearby Stratford does. The closest public swimming pool is Tobruk Memorial, a little more than 15 minutes’ drive east.

Redlynch residents can choose from private and state schools offering prep to year 12. The nearby suburbs of Freshwater and Brinsmead have primary schools and a Christian college.

St Andrew’s Catholic College is currently developing plans for a district-level sports facility in partnership with local council for the suburb.

The facility is expected to have an Olympic-size pool, a mountain bike track and other sports grounds.

SHOPPING

Redlynch Central Shopping Centre is small but has plenty to offer including a Woolworths, bakery, chemist, newsagent and more. The suburb also has a number of takeaway options and the Red Beret is a popular pub/bistro.

CHILD CARE

Child-care centres are available in adjacent suburbs but Redlynch does have schools including Redlynch State College and St Andrew’s Catholic College .