Silver Laced Wyandottes and Delawares are really great. My Wyandotte, once she started laying, became the sweetest thing. She was a bit shy up until that point. She follows me everywhere, and her pattern is just so beautiful! My Delaware makes me chase her around the yard, and is my blueberry thief, and sneaks into the scratch bin if I leave the lid off, but I like her spunk. She is a FABULOUS mouser. She's caught more mice than my two cats combined, and she's a good layer. The bright white color is a nice addition to the black, and buff colored hens. Yes, I like pretty hens too, and ones that are sweet and lay lots of eggs.
Yes, Australorps are wonderful... I have 2 that I dearly love. Since you've already gotten good review for them, I thought I'd chime in on the others.
I don't have any experience with Brahmas or Marans. Another pretty color are the Speckled Sussex. I like that rich mahogany color that they have. I just got a Light Sussex pullet. She's really pretty, and so far is quite happy and easy going.
Have fun with your chickens!
