I have tried lots of different breeds, the one BA I had (Betty) was my favorite. Very friendly, always came running to see me. Excellent hardiness and longevity, 6 years...only to be done in by a roaming dog.
I'm a fan. Friendly, quietly chatty, excellent layers & a bit clueier than some birds I've owned. My Aussies are the alpha/beta chooks but not nasty or domineering & not @ all prone to broodiness.
being in New England as well, the only thing is you're going to have to watch your ventilation in your coop in the winter so that those single combs stay healthy. I don't have an Ausie, but I have a black jersey giant, which is similar. Last year when we had that major cold snap in Jan, I was very concerned for her comb, but she did alright.
Just make sure your coop has someplace for the moisture from their breathing to get out.