- DH works in the city...how long does it really take to get there? Google says 55mins but I doubt that takes things like peak hour into account.
Of course, as a greenie, your DH would catch the train into town. That takes about 70 minutes or you can get a direct train which is a super-express!

- how convenient is it in terms of supermarkets, butchers, fruit shops etc...where's the nearest farmer's market?
There's a farmers market at Mulgrave (body shop) on wellington road, one in the yarra valley, a really good fruit & veg shop at the FTG market. There's a woolies in belgrave / UFTG / FTG. Coles at FTG / Monbulk. Aldi & another supermarket in UFTG. Organic / free range butchers in both belgrave & upwey, or a standard butcher in UFTG. Organic shops in Kalista, Belgrave & UFTG.

- what are the kindys and schools like? Is there a montessori?
Yes to montessori, the schools are very eco-friendly. There's Mater Christie if you want private girls - or I've heard good things about Belgrave South primary, Upwey primary and secondary. There's also a christian school.

- is it a safe area?
I feel safe. but there are always times when you don't feel safe. the train late on a saturday or sunday night is always a bit weird, but I think that's society today.

If you do move up here, you'll be part of a wonderful community where the shopkeepers know you and chat on the street ... I love it here!