In Canberra’s most enduring debate, everyone seems convinced their side of the lake is best. Photo: Daniel Morton.
Live in Canberra long enough and you’ll learn there’s one question guaranteed to spark debate: are you north or south of the lake?
Ask any local where’s better to live, work or play and they’ll probably give a fast and passionate answer, followed by a list of reasons why the other end of town doesn’t quite measure up.
The irony is, both Northsiders and Southsiders generally agree that Canberra is a wonderful city to live in – they just prefer to experience it from their own half.
McIntyre Property agent Scott Isaacs has lived north of the lake for 25 years. He suspects the debate actually brings Canberrans closer rather than causing division.
“A bit of friendly rivalry never hurt anyone! The north-south divide is part of our local culture,” he says.
“It’s a playful little exercise, almost an inside joke, but that doesn’t mean it’s without substance. People put a lot of stock in it.
“Once someone identifies as a Northsider or Southsider, that identity tends to stick.”
While Scott travels all over Canberra for work, he’s a Belconnen native at heart and definitely pro-north.
His home district enjoys continued growth alongside its Gungahlin neighbours, with greenfield suburbs like Strathnairn, Macnamara and Jacka attracting new blood year after year.
“There’s a wonderful sense of community in the north,” he says.
“Our mix of fresh-faced and historic suburbs attracts all kinds of people. We’re a real cultural melting pot, connected by a love of social sport, good food and enjoying life outdoors.”
North Canberra is indeed known for its range of world cuisines. Indian, Vietnamese, Thai, Ethiopian and Nepalese restaurants join a patchwork of modern Australian pubs, clubs, cafes and long-time institutions such as Tilley’s in Lyneham.
“Getting into the city is super easy by bus or tram,” Scott says.
“We have loads of little shopping villages around, so you don’t have to go into the malls if you don’t want to.
“There’s always something to check out on the weekend, whether it’s an open-mic night, theatre show, gallery exhibition, hobby workshop or just live music and drinks with friends.”
Col McIntyre is a Southsider through and through. He says you just can’t beat the natural beauty and mountain views of Tuggeranong, Woden, Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley.
“I really enjoy the slower pace of living south of the lake,” Col says.
“We have bigger blocks, less traffic congestion, nice wide streets and open spaces with mature greenery.
“You can’t go past our beautiful waterways either; Lake Tuggeranong, Pine Island, Kambah Pool and Point Hut are all wonderful spots for a picnic or bushwalk.”
While the area may not host many large-scale events, Southsiders love weekend markets, family barbecues, school fetes and community days.
Col says it’s a more peaceful, relaxed place to live, popular with young families, retirees and professionals alike.
“I think we know our neighbours a bit better, too. People say hello while they’re out and about.
“Inner-south suburbs like Kingston, Manuka, and Yarralumla are really prestigious these days. They’re a wonderful option if you want to live a bit closer to the city, but aren’t quite ready to cross the pond.”
Despite the friendly rivalry between north and south Canberra, there are a few commonalities that surface time and again.
Dog culture is huge here. Pop down to the local cafe or park and you’re almost guaranteed to spot a retriever, oodle, shepherd or terrier of some kind.
Both sides enjoy good schools, solid amenities and a wide range of property types, plus easy access to wineries, hiking trails and routes to the snow or coast.
“We’ve all walked, biked, or boated around Lake Burley Griffin at some point. It’s more of a connector than a divider,” Col says.
“The fact that we’re so keen to champion our side shows how much we love living in the capital.”
Even among the most passionate debaters, it seems Canberra’s lifestyle is the real winner – no matter which side of the lake you call home.
Looking to buy or sell in Canberra? Get in touch with McIntyre Property.
