Kim and Lindsay run one of the cleanest, modern and friendliest motels in Gippsland. I've stayed at almost all of the others in town and this is my pick as the best. All the amenities you'd expect these days, including fast wireless internet and good off-street parking.

Some of the best pizzas I have had in Melbourne. Generous quantities of fresh toppings, some very interesting and inventive new varieties, worth a try if you are feeling jaded or let down by your current pizza shop. 4 Stars out of Five

Approximate cost: $9-$18

I sold our two family cars through carsales.com.au this year and wish they had been around when I had to last go through this process years ago. the ads were good value, the web site is quite user-friendly and overall, a far better way to sell your car than through newspapers. I will use them again to buy and sell, 5 Stars.

Approximate cost: $50-60

Buying a used car from a dealer can be hard - there are a lot of sharks and pushy white-shoe salesmen out there, trying to find their next sucker. I've met lots of them. Then I found this place. Totally not the usual used car yard. Scott Manson and his wife operate the business, hand pick only quality cars and treat you with respect. They specialise in 4WD's but also stock utes and SUV's as well. I was very impressed with their website, the standard of their vehicles and the personal, friendly service from Scott and his team. I purchased a 2006 Pajero from them and am delighted with the vehicle, the excellent value and the whole experience. The feedback from other customers on their web site echoes this. Highly recommended, 5 Stars out of 5.

Approximate cost: $8,000-$60,000

The motel is an easy walk to the town centre and beach, hotels, restaurants and shops. The rooms are clean, if a bit spartan, modern and well maintained. Parking is off street, outside the rooms. All the usual amenities, and disabled access is good too. Indoor solar heated pool/Spa (needed in winter) with wheelchair hoist. Two rooms designed for people with disabilities. One of the better motels in town. Friendly service, fair prices (mid-range).

I work as a company rep, and have stayed in lots of Victorian motels. This one stands out for cleanliness, modern decor, amenities and service. Janine McBride is a great hostess, who cares about pleasing her guests more than making a 'quick buck'. What a refreshing change! I won't stay anywhere else in Warrnambool now, it's such a great motel. Only downside - no restaurant, however the local hotel which Janine recommends do great meals delivered to your room, so I don't miss it.

Approximate cost: $from $99/night

This is one outstanding cafe and cake shop. Tucked out of the way in Parker Street, the cafe is spacious, serves superb coffee and the cakes are just about the best I've ever had anywhere in Australia. They specialize in Mediterranean-style sweets made on the premises, but serve everything from light snacks through to main meals too. Great bustling atmosphere, and judging by their busy weekend trade, the word is getting around. My pick of Best Cafe in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. Excellent!!

Approximate cost: $22

I have suffered from a bad neck for years. When my GP diagnosed osteo-arthritis I was dismayed, because I thought it could only get worse. He recommended I go next door to the Back In Motion physiotherapy practice, in case they could help. Todd was brilliant, giving me a treatment on the spot, without an appointment. I have been back many times since and my OA is now the best it's been in ten years, with the exercises Todd gave me working a small miracle. I go back now about once every six weeks, so it's quite affordable for the relief it brings. Highly recommended.

Approximate cost: $63/visit

I have now bought close to ten refilled Canon ink-jet cartridges from John Madden's shop - he always has the stock I need and they work like new in my printer, but at a significant cost saving over a new cartridge ($10 cheaper approx. each). I will be going back (and saving $$) from now on.

Approximate cost: $160

I was looking for a metal detector to take with us on a holiday to the goldfields and the team at the Miners Den were extremely helpful. They recommended the best value machine for our (amatuer) needs and threw in some useful extras as part of the deal. The unit works well and I am getting better with it every trip, thanks to practice and the great 'how to' DVD they gave me. I'll be back soon to buy some panning tools and get advice on our next prospecting trip.

Approximate cost: $1200