There is a fantastic playgroup at the TAFE in Crows Nest, on West Street. I have just started going there with my 23 month old. It is run by the Early Childhood TAFE students and it is huge. You just turn up - no need to book. It is $8 a session, so a bit more expensive than others, but there is so much to do, both inside and out. It has just finished for the holidays, but starts again in a few weeks time - end of July I think. Usually it goes from 10am-12noon Monday-Saturday and 2-4pm on Tuesdays (as well as the 10am session). I really recommend it. A lot of mums hang out on the little 'green' outside Gloria Jeans in the afternoons. I have just recently moved here from London and I don't know any other mums, but I find that if I hang around there I almost always find someone to chat to for half an hour. I must admit, the only downer about the TAFE playgroup is that it is so big you don't necessarily meet anyone - or perhaps that is just me! Oh, if you pop into the Early Childhood Centre on Ernest Street in Crows Nest you will be able to get a booklet that lists services and playgroups. Or just go onto the North Sydney Council website - it is really helpful as well.
Sharlene, Sophie (2), baby due March 08