I could say heaps on this!

Contact your local council to talk about FDC options.
PM me with where you live and I will sling you back a list of what I consider to be acceptable centres in your area
Early drop-off and earlier pick up is a great option. If Sam is like most babies his age, 5pm and beyond are not his best time of day; if he's a little bit grizzly he needs to be with number 1(mum or dad) Childcare workers for the most part are brilliant at their jobs, but they're not the same.
$85 for a baby room is pretty reasonable, depending whereabouts it is.

Back with more later....