Welcome to BYC! I have had both Buff Orpingtons (presently have 4) and Barred Rocks (none right now) and like both breeds--especially the sweet temperament of the Orpingtons. Another breed you might want to look into are Black Astralorps. They are very cold hardy, friendly and docile birds and will usually outlay either the Orpingtons or the Rocks. Good luck in purchasing your flock.
Sorry, I misspelled "Australorp."