That's also a very interesting and useful post. Thanks Nicky. I admire the perspectives from the different responses.
We lived on the Gold Coast for three years and often used to drive down south in northern NSW, but never came to Lismore or Port Macquarie. We are currently in Townsville, which is again next to the sea. But we also lived in Canberra for a few years.
I can see that Lismore has the cosy, town flavour. But it can often be flooded. Port Macquarie can be more touristic, beautiful with a nice weather. But we also always admired the beautiful country towns in Northern NSW and it would be good to be in closer proximity to a big city.