THE BAY ISLANDS

A SLICE OF PARADISE WITH POTENTIAL

Stradbroke Island, Russell Island, Macleay Island, Karragarra Island and Lamb Island are brimming with potential.

Just a short distance from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the opportunites are endless!

Video by Moreton Bay Combined Island Associations Inc

THE BAY ISLANDS

North Stradbroke Russell Macleay Lamb Karragarra

North Stradbroke

Traditionally known as Minjerribah, North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world. It offers a wide range of experiences including the best land-based whale-watching in Australia. Right on Brisbane’s doorstep, 'Straddie' is perfect for day trips, short stays or week-long getaways.

There are kilometres of golden beaches, freshwater lakes and ocean waters teeming with marine life including dolphins, manta rays, turtles and humpback whales. For those who like a bit of adventure and fun there are 4WD tours, sandboarding, surfing lessons, diving, snorkelling, golf and a vast spectrum of aquatic activities.

For others who want a more relaxing day out, 'Straddie' offers bowls, bird-watching, picnic spots, scenic walks and perfect beach fishing, as well as secluded hideaways in the calm waters of Moreton Bay.

North Stradbroke Island has an extensive range of holiday accommodation including architecturally designed holiday houses with their own whale-watching towers, beach-front and foreshore camping, family holiday resorts with self-contained accommodation as well as a backpacker hostel.

Russell

Be greeted by an amazing mosaic masterpiece that will set the mood for your visit to Russell Island, the largest of the Southern Islands. At 3km by 8km, it is separated from North Stradbroke Island by Canaipa Passage and extends down almost as far as Jumpinpin Bar between North and South Stradbroke islands. It also has views south to the Gold Coast.

Check out the Southern Moreton Bay Island Museum, swimming pool, RSL and bowls clubs. There is also a medical centre, supermarket, library and many public parks to explore.

Russell’s hallmarks are its easy-living, fishing opportunities and connection with the natural environment. The bird life is simply amazing, with the island a world-recognised sanctuary.

Macleay

There’s plenty to do on Maclea Island, with a bowls club, boat club, golf course and beaches for swimming and fishing and barbecue facilities in the foreshore parks. It offers some of the best views in the southern bay. A sealed road runs through the centre of the island from the ferry terminal in the south to Pat's Point picnic and swimming area in the north. A causeway connects Macleay to the quaint island of Perulpa.

Potts Point is a popular spot for picnics and swimming. Dalpura Beach, on the island’s western shores, is a top spot to relax, have a barbecue or go for a swim. This is arguably the best place to check out the stunning sunsets.

There are several boat ramps making this a great place for boating and fishing fans. And, with a flourishing arts culture, Macleay Island also has a range of galleries to explore.

While Macleay is the second largest of the Southern Islands at 6.5km long and 4km at its widest point, it boasts the largest population.

Lamb

Just 2km by 1km, it’s easy to get around this peaceful little island. The second smallest of the Southern Islands, it has a swimming enclosure and all the peace and quiet you want, particularly as it is virtually traffic-free. You can meet the locals at the recreation clubhouse. There's also a community hall, public tennis court and a first-aid facility.

If you're into boating and fishing, or enjoy solitude and the natural environment, this is the place for you. It is separated from the much larger Macleay Island by narrow Lucas Passage.

Karragarra

Karragarra Island, between Russell and Macleay islands, is a great day-trip destination with a family-safe beach and netted enclosure. This is the smallest of the southern islands, approximately 500m wide and 2km long and is a top spot for picnics.

The island has sandy beaches and a protected swimming area near the jetty, with barbecues, picnic tables and shady trees as well as public amenities and a playground.

Everything here is within easy walking distance, which means there is virtually no traffic. This is a great place to chill and escape the rat race.

From website Redland City Council.

Population In Numbers - Census 2016

North Stradbroke

Russell Island

Macleay Island

Lamb Island

Karragarra Island

Official registered population not accurate

The above population are the official numbers (2016) as per ABS Census Quickstats.

There is strong indication and convincing evidence that the population has substantially increased at the time of writing.

Property sales increase

Recent article from Bay Island DOTS

Number of registered plots

Registered plots based on Google info: SMBI number of plots

Island paradise waiting to be discovered!

BAY ISLANDS

The Southern Moreton Bay Islands are rapidly growing. More and more people discover the natural beauty, relaxed and friendly lifestyle and potential for (eco) tourism and business of the islands. And all this in close proximity to Brisbane and the Gold Coast!

Property and land are still affordable and a good investment. This means the building industry is booming and new houses and businesses are popping up everywhere.