Peterborough
Sea-change dreamers could consider Peterborough, right on the Great Ocean Road.
The dramatic coastline around Peterborough equals the famous 12 Apostles down the road (some would argue the Bay of Islands with its limestone stacks is even more spectacular, and the coastal walks, coves and beaches are certainly less crowded).
Most of the year, Peterborough is a sleepy coastal town of around 320 residents, with a larger summer population (many houses are holiday homes or rentals). Despite the small permanent population, Peterborough has an active community who welcome new residents with open arms. Peterborough has two general stores (one licensed) and two cafes; a popular community hall, town beach (unpatrolled) and foreshore playground, Curdies River inlet (safer for families to swim) and caravan park, a fabulous links golf course with amazing ocean views, and stunning coastal walks.
School buses run to Timboon P-12 school (15km away), Nullawarre Primary (20 minutes) and Warrnambool (40 minutes). Tourist haven Port Campbell, with its plethora of cafes and restaurants, is 13km away. Housing and land in town or acreage are available, from $300k to over $1 million.
Peterborough is a 60-minute drive from Port Fairy via Warrnambool and Allansford.