I like Yass as well. I know a number of people who do or who have lived there and they universally like it. Being close to Canberra and Sydney are advantages, without being too close.
Townsville? I was offered a job there years ago and went to have a look. I stepped off the stairs of the plane and thought... nope - not for me. I nearly died from the humidity. That's me though.
I also like Yass because this sign has been up for years and is a permanent chuckle for me every time I go there. The town has GOT to be laid back, right?
