I'm not from your area but some places (Churches etc) run craft mornings and sometimes they have babysitting available.  Our local pool does a Creche for a couple of hours so mums can go and do laps and get some excerise.  But i'm sure when you join your Playgroup you will meet some great people.  Give it time and you will make new friends.  It does take time but i have made some lasting friendships through my Playgroup.

hi, im also from the west, my son starts playgroup on wednesday in Albanvale (near deer park), i have also been thinking about taking my son to the indoor playgrounds once a week.

Have you called your Local Council to ask whether there are any Parent/Toddler or Activity groups around your area?

Alternaively, I guess if there aren't any you could start one and invite people and put it up in the supermarket bulletin boards that you are having one or looking for one.