Marooned on the unfashionable northern fringes of Wagga – an area long considered the “wrong side of the river” – Estella was a neighbourhood almost exclusively inhabited by students and oldies.

But suddenly, the sleeping giant awoke.

Savvy developers, lured by cheap land and the area’s surprisingly close proximity to the CBD, started snapping up blocks.

The tale of the tape tells the story.

In 2012, just over 200 new home approvals were granted for Estella.

In 2013, 256 new approvals were ticked off on.

This year, the figure is already at 482.

Recently, an 80-block land release at Estella Rise was almost sold entirely in a day and waiting lists for new land are growing.

Demand is surging so fast in parts of Boorooma, perspective residents are being forced to wait at least six months for the next stage to be developed.

Much of the growth has been driven by young couples, attracted to the suburb’s low crime rate, family friendly atmosphere and affordable new housing.

A shopping centre is already slated for the area and while it lacks a primary school, it seems almost inevitable North Wagga school will eventually be shifted across the highway.

Council’s controversial 80/20 rule at the competing development of Lloyd, which requires 80 per cent of a block to be impervious to water, has also nudged buyers north towards Estella.

Locals extol the virtues of Estella with an almost religious zeal.

There is a shared sense of purpose from the young, working-class families who inhabit it. Residents look out for each other’s kids as they ride their bikes and play in the neighbourhood.

This is not one of those impersonal “McMansion” suburbs, with postage stamp blocks and neighbours competing for the best car and biggest home.

At a time when the local headlines are dominated by crime and political turmoil, Estella reveals the true face of Wagga.

It offers an important reminder of what makes our city so great, and indeed, why we are the most family friendly city in the nation.