I have done it both as a train commuter and car commuter. I found the train commute easier, although it was longer. The drive was draining after a while. We are now living closer to work and DH and I both value the little things a whole lot more. Eating dinner together as a family at a reasonable hour. Not having to drop DS2 off to childcare so early. Having more time to play/chat/read/just be with DS2 after dinner - that timeslot between dinner and bed has increased considerably.

I agree that it's okay in the mornings but it's the nights that are sucky. We are in Canberra too, so our winter days are short (and cold).