We went for a drive down there yesterday and I was surprised how much they had there in the way of shops etc, but was also surprised at how quiet it was. It felt like a Sunday, and with no people around shopping 2 weeks before christmas? I thought that was a bit weird!
Unless a lot of people drive to traralgon or warragul or something for shopping?

We did witness a woman who looked and sounded like she was under the influence, screaming at a man that she didn't want his drugs Not really the kind of first impression I expected!

I hear what you're saying. A bad reputation usually precedes a good one! I guess it's like anywhere. There are good areas and there are bad. Unfortunately we don't get to choose the area, and knowing little about the town I don't know where the bad areas are.