Hi Love2Golf I'm also in Earlwood and a current member of Marrickville golf club.
I can say it is a very welcoming club, from the board, to the pro shop, to the bar - its a great little community. The pro staff Kylie and Chris are fantastic, and both reportedly good teachers. I also have a young family and the 3&1/2 -4 hour rounds are perfect for family balance
I connot comment on Bexley, I've never played it, the proximity of Marrickville was just too compelling.
Pros:
Community
Greens
Fast round
Challenging - The course will test your short game and mid-long irons closely.
Cons:
Its short, Par 60 only! - I miss the rhythm of regular driver, then iron, then putt (or chip) from a par 72,
Its also a pretty simple course - not much variety
Some have said the blind shots are an issue - but these actually become an interesting part of the course
Comp does not start till 7-730 on a saturday with social play before the comp
Happy choosing.