Why is the land so cheap in Macleay Island?
33 Answers
FACTS ABOUT MACLEAY ISLAND FROM AN ISLAND RESIDENT'S PERSPECTIVE
There seems to be two different demographics living on Macleay Island, differentiated between the more expensive properties with beach access and or sea views and the cheaper to very cheap properties in the interior of the island with no water views. Often the very cheap blocks are usually scrub clad (expensive to clear which can't be done without a building permit) probably very small sq.meters in size, or have a drainage/terrain problem always get a soil Test done before you buy!!.
It costs about 20% more to build a home on these Southern Moreton Bay Islands - carriage of building materials and cost of concrete truck etc., all having to be transported over by Stradbroke Ferries barges. The small 'weekenders' going up aren't designed for good ventilation needed here in S.E. Queensland searing summers, so, don't imagine saving money that way. Youll need outdoor living with verandas or decks and if in the interior of the island particularly, insect screened enclosures.
Why live or buy on an island and not have water view? Because the land in the interior is cheap I suppose. BUT, the inconvenience and cost of living on an island with no bridge to the mainland should be a deterrent to those who haven't thought about the cost of living here, or 'done the maths considering their needs. There is inadequate funding to Bay Island Community Services to service the needs of the incapacitated, the disadvantaged and the very old. People usually have to move to the mainland to find these services. Travelling to and from the mainland is very expensive and inconvenient. There is no public transport on the island so a car or motorised bike is essential, then, parking near the ferry terminal is at a premium and rarely available after 6.30am each day.
There will never be a bridge to Macleay Island from the Mainland. The cost would be horrendous and the potential population would not justify its construction. (There may be to Russell Island from the southern end in the VERY distant future). Dont believe anyone who tells you otherwise! Most people I know on Macleay Island are here because of the island lifestyle anyway and would strongly object to a bridge connection.
People don't often consider the costs to their families coming over to visit them...passenger ferry and bare costs are very expensive so contact can be minimal with Grandchildren unless people make the expensive effort to go see them on the mainland. Then, many women miss the shopping choices available on the mainland.... you wouldn't come to these islands to shop!!
Residents here are predominantly over 55 years with most being retired, often have a farming background or are from mainland country towns. Many have sailed the world, are Boaties and fishermen, and are of Australian or New Zealand descent. Many residents now are also from the U.K. and Europe and a few from S.E. Asia. Quite a number of people are families of Vietnam Veterans most of them work in the Lions and Ulysees clubs and are community volunteers. Yes, it's quiet and restful here. We would really welcome more stable young families here.
Ok, there have been 2 murders in over 100 years of our history - each committed by relative newcomers. The crime rate is very low indeed and our Insurance premiums are cheaper accordingly. Children walk in safety unaccompanied by adults and our community is secure. Like any small town we have our occasional rat bags or ferals, but, honestly, they seem only to be visible on the public transport passenger ferries or at the local Pub. Never judge a person by how they appear is the lesson I learned when first we arrived. People here are usually unassuming and choose to live here because of our wonderful coastal lifestyle and prolific - almost friendly birdlife.
There are midges and mosquitoes, but mainly in the bushy interior. Around the coastline there are breezes deterring these pests and they are no more a pesky than we used to put up with when we lived in Ferny Hills in Brisbane, or, Tallebugera on the Gold Coast - despite the hype.
Macleay is a very friendly welcoming community with a hospitable small town attitude and many activities and interests to pursue; craft, Golf, Bowls, Boating, Art and Pottery, ukulele, Tai Chi, Yoga and Tai Kwan Do Clubs. Entertainment with musical dinners and musicians, plays etc at the Progress Hall, good Bistro's and entertainment at the Golf and Bowls/RSL clubs and Tingira Boat Club which also stages international events. There's a welcoming Organic Garden/Market group (wonderful people) at the Lemon Farm which celebrates many occasions, outdoor films in summer, markets Tuesdays and Saturdays. You can be as active and involved as you want!
There is heaps to do....or, just 'vege' out and enjoy the tranquil beautifully scenic, environment. Fish or catch crab in your pots, toss in prawn and squid nets around the coast, take out your boat or kayak to observe the hundreds of turtle and perhaps dugong and dolphin in these sheltered inner Moreton Bay waters and enjoy over 250 species of native birds to wake you up every day.... Then, when you feel like it, take a ferry or barge to the Mainland and compare.the noise, the crowds, the traffic, the aggression and stress there.we have none of that!
Hi
I am a long term homeowner (12 years) on Russell island after renting for 1 year and love it here. We have operated an honest, employee and customer-based business successfully here for that time with no issues. There are many employment opportunities in Redlands just within a ferry ride and 20 minutes to half hour on the mainland side. Russell is a quiet place, with a mixture of retired and younger people, and certainly there are a number of battlers here. But everyone has their spot and the community-minded nature allows kids to develop with an ability to interact well with any age as the freedom to grow and explore themselves freely. Certainly they can be loud and boisterous when traveling to school but just avoid the boats at those scheduled times. And yes in winter it may be stuffy inside the ferries with heaters on but the back of the boats provide ample space to sit and the view is peaceful and picturesque all the way. Mossies can be avoided with mossiescreens on windows and repellents if you go outside. Some areas of our island are worse than others so do your research there. Russell has more services than Macleay and the supermarket is reasonably priced with a turn around of not much time in the shop waiting for service. Or do woolies deliverybut in a timely fashion to get onboard with the truck. Dr, pathologist, chemist, hairdressers, hardware post office, take away shop, bowls club fishing club, RSL, cricket club, table tennis club, sailing club and blue care for anyone who needs. Emergency care from ambos is prompt with a dedicated boat and for urgent cases a helicopter can medivac you to the hospital in 9 minutes. Real estate is cheap but you may not be able to resell quickly as there is a large inventory. I moved here to get away from the ratrace and feel safe in myself and in my home and have never experienced a problem with time here out and about and in traveling on the boat and buses. If you need to leave the island the barge ride is comfy enough and takes an hour or so with a cost of just over $110 return which is easy to gain access on but book early for Christmas and other holidays. Much else can be said but I think come and stay here at a cheap motel and interact with the locals, talk and keep your eyes open. Make up your own mind. I wouldn't live anywhere else even though now with declining health am forced to go to the mainland more often. But it would take just as long to travel if I lived on the mainland in some other areas. Acceptance from everyone here is easily attained that's for sure.
Is anyone be interested in partnering creating high quality retirement village at Macleay Island ? send your LOI to [email protected]
To all peoples, if you worry about what people might say about you, then by all means you would never survive here, but if you grow some you know whats, you may just say, bugger them all and do what makes you happy. If you live your life worrying about other people's views and even worse, raising your children with the same hangups, then you have not learnt life's lessons. At the end of the day you will be in your coffin by yourself, you had better start realizing that! Enjoy the mainland with all the other try-hards! Have met more people and know their first names in 7 years of living on the islands than I did in my previous 57 years on the mainland.
It is cheap becuase it is one of the few undiscovered gems left in Australia. Where else in the world can you find an island property, in the heart of Moreton Bay, surrounded by world heritage listed parks and beaches, North Stradbroke island, in between 2 of the best capital cities in Australia being Brisbane 30 minutes one way and Gold Coast 30 minutes the other way. The best fishing you will find anywhere in Australia, friendly locals, golf course, bowls club, shops. More bird wild life than you will find anywhere, I have kookaburras waking me up each morning. If your one of those types who enjoy people watching at your local shopping centre or cinema, dont come. If you enjoy sitting in traffic for 3 hours a day whilst sipping on your soy latte, dont come. If you want an affordable, relaxed lifestyle where you can be yourself , then come over and check it out. I certainly wont ever be moving anywhere else.
Hey, all. Lets keep Macleay Island a secret and those that live their can enjoy a little piece of paradise without interruption. I for one cant wait to build our home to retire in, at least 5 years earlier than I can afford on the mainland. Our block of land is in a lovely quiet street with other owner occupiers in good quality homes with a beautiful view of the bay as we drive down our street. Amazing bird life and I will be able to walk my kayak down the street for a paddle anytime I want to.
Hello everyone, Ive been following posts on here for awhile now. Some are wonderful and some are quite disappointing. Ive lived in many places and always gotten on with my neighbors, either good friends or just a wave in the morning and a lend of milk early in the morning. In all areas, theres been robberys, undesirables and wonderful people. Your home is what you make it. I will get involved in some community activities and also keep to myself. I am an artist, now single and empty nester, with health issues.
I have a freind already on Macleay, reading posts about undesirable families is quite disgusting, my freind lives beside a single lady with four children, no help and no close family. Yes she does drink more than she should but Instead of judging this lady just trying to do the best she can, my freind sent over veggies she had grown, sometimes took the kids to the beach or park, helped with washing when her machine broke. Maybe instead of judging, get to know your neighbors, help if you can or maybe just be a sounding board when people are having a tough time. Yes some people are just bad, but youll find that everywhere, not just on an island which is no different to any other suburb in Australia. As for the mozzies, I lived on the water at Redland Bay and yes you get mozzies in summer, its an island and its australia, dont like it, dont move there! Yes on Macleay Im expecting a little higher grocery prices, longer delivery times and costs and having to travel to the mainland on occasion.
The only difficulties Im foreseeing for myself is the initial move (but I hate moving), moving something heavy, (which Im sure a friendly neighbor will help with), not having a boat to spend time on the water, (open to invites ) and trying to decide what community activities to be involved with, there seems to be far to many choices for such a small community.
Have a great day!
There is a high turnover of people moving there thinking its nice but they soon realise the truth. Then they move off if they rent and if they have bought well many houses take YEARS to sell. The real estates will tell you anything to get a sale. Its cheap for a reason. Midges, ferrals, druggos generally many scruffy smelly types and people with many chronic diseases and morbid obesity. Its very much a low sociopath economic area. Probably in ranking the islands 1st place karragarra, 2nd place Macleay, 3 russel and 4 lamb. Many people who seem to have had a hard life, many women escaping DV the school is rough, lots of rough kids. Avoid Hamilton parade and down that area, lots of cars getting petrol stolen yes 2 x murders, the boats in winter are extra putrid with smokers cough and coughing up chunky flegm. In the morning the ferry stink that bad of bad breath, stale smoke, stale alcohol, BO, kids skid mark underwear, dirty laundry basket smell. To be honest Im glad we left the place,, its awful and the kids your kids will rub shoulders with are awful, they swear they are unkempt just poor parenting. One thing you dont see is any ciggy buts on the ground as the smokers who are desperate go round with plastic bags and pick them all up. Yes the shops are expensive and one of them, quite often the food is close to its sell by date. Seems to also be a lot of people trying to make a quick buck doing dodgy handyman work and fly by night types. Lots of people on the disability pension. A lot of the houses get mould and are damp so if you have any nice furniture it will go mouldy especially leather and wood and suede and clothes. Yes Woolworths deliver but its hard to get a spot as everyone is using the service now. There are probably about 25% respectable people who seem to belong to boat Bowles and golf club art clubs etc etc the rest are typical Aussie bogans of varying degrees from a bit rough right down to feral drugs types. If your keen on dying your hair a terrible colour and getting some tats and going bare feet you will love it. My advice is rent for a couple of years if you last that long and then decide. Best practice to tell people you live in the redlands and leave it at that. Anyone over this side of Brisbane will raise their eyebrow if you say you live on the islands... its social death!!!!
well im one of the 25% , a single dad with 5 kids , all have been to the '' the rough school '' 2 are still there the other 3 go to another public school VPHS and are doing extremely well as they did in that ''rough school'' . they are well mannered and respectful cause thats the way they where brought up . Your findings of the people here i find whilst some of what you state is true but is generally a gross exaggeration , you will find this cross section of people in any suburb on the mainland , oh and by the way i live in the Hamilton Parade area ALEXANDER ST to be exact and we have nice normal people in our area . As far as im concerned you obviously have an attitude problem fitting into island life or for that matter anywhere you would live ....so why did you come here ??
What an elitist, narrow minded example you are! How dare you state 25% of people on Macleay Island are ok. How long did you live here, were you involved in the local community, did you "put in" to the local community in any way, did you mix with a wide range of people from a variety of socioeconomic circumstances (wtf is sciopath economics - if you want to use big words make sure you the correct meaning) and why the hell did you come here in the first place? Contrary to your rant, the majority of people on the island are decent. Yes we have a small proportion of undesirables - as does any community . As for the 2 murders - the first one was a blow in from elsewhere, the second was associoate with drug and alcohol abuse and time spent in jail. People move here to retire (yes properties are cheap compared to the mainland but I prefer to own rather than being saddled with a mortgage), the lifestyle and the laid back life on the islands. Thanks for leaving the island. Best decision you made as we don't need your sort here.
Naturally if you own property there you are going to defend the place. In the hope that one day it might be worth more . As I said before its cheap for a reason. My advice is rent first because it doesnt take long to see it is what it is. Tell me this, why does that ferry have a putrid smell when its packed full of people when any Brisbane city bus equally packed does not smell like stale sweat, alcohol, stale smoke, its simply awful and all the people on the mainland are judgemental towards islanders so its no fun for children, they get ostracised by the other kids. It has a reputation, always has. Enjoy the place it obviously suits you well, unfortunately the world is very judgemental... sad fact of life and you will get raised eyebrows if you say that you live there. Thats my experience and very glad I did not buy there. Apologies if I offended you but I believe many others feel the same way and some agree with you perhaps. So I say again go rent first, stuff Vicks vapour rub up your nose for the ferry ride and enjoy the $14.00 per day commute just to get on and off the place.
I like to see the people expose themselves for the truth that is in the comments of the "naysayer". It looks like janel6 has hit a nerve! Referring to newcomers as "blow-ins" with "attitude-problems" and "your sort" and "why the hell did you come here" is hardly a gracious attitude or in any way welcoming to anyone coming to the island, but clearly that IS in fact how anyone out of *their* category is perceived by these "die hard locals". Thank you for your review janel6, you have provided an interesting perspective.
Russell Island is booming on the Brisbane Bayside. Checkout these amazing news items The Great Day Out http://bit.ly/RedlandCoastSouthernIslands https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1640870036016883&id=103832643053971 "Buy land for the price of a holiday: https://m.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/buy-land-for-the-price-of-a-holiday/3837053/ "Four islands in southern Moreton Bay set to receive ferry terminal upgrades in government deal" http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/redlands/news-story/3af6e77afdc58e84edc802b758803aff 7 News Brisbane https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2596083143737855&id=130736376939223 Brisbane Property Investor https://qldpropertyinvestor.com.au/queensland-to-rank-among-best-state-markets-in-2019/ "It is cheaper to buy than rent in this south east Queensland island paradise" https://www.realestate.com.au/news/it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent-in-this-south-east-queensland-island-paradise/ Get Inspired at https://www.instagram.com/russellisland.qld/ And from last year "Best bargain suburbs for buyers in 2018" https://www.realestate.com.au/news/best-bargain-suburbs-for-buyers-2018/
Ah janel6 Thank you soo much for being honest. I had come across properties on islands for sale, thinking "wow! sounds like what dreams are made of etc," but couldnt understand why so cheap!! Now I know why. I did thort as I read along I could handle that bit and this bit, but I definitely drew the line at "skid marks and phelgm !!!! Thanks again So where you roughly did you end moving to, back on mainland?
I have just been looking at some realestate on line at Macleay Island, and the conversation going on between Jane16 and the rest of the people has put me right off. If not for Janes description of the island but for the other peoples lack of respect for her views. It doesnt sound like a very accepting or understanding community to be a part of. Perhaps thats the way the locals there want it, as long as they understand that it wont help their land valuations. Lots of luck! Michael
Hi michael i have been visiting Macleay Is for many years- recently decide it was time and we are now building our home there. My last home was in Manly QLD- very supposed up market suburb. It is interesting to note that in the few month we have been fulltime on macleay w e have met more honest and decent people than we ever found on the mainland. There are bogans in every suburb but people remain aloof usually in normal suburbia whereas on the islands they are much less so. Have been invited to people's homes more in the last 6 months here on macleay than in 4 years in Manly. So, it's really what YOU make it - not what it makes you...
After visiting the beautiful island on a recent tour of the Moreton Islands i have decided to purchase a small affordable house as its a great place to relax .The main reason me and my family are buying on macleay and not straddie is because of the comments of the passionate locals that live on the island so thanks.
I dont care with the comments of janes Im from the Phils. As long as the people there had a unity and golden heart that is a heaven to live with and a good retirement place to stay ..Wish i can visit there ..waiting for my tourist visa to approve I want to visit your place .And perform teach massage and therapy for women to use to there family especially for seniors GOD LEAD ME THERE I WILL PRAY TO THAT ..BLESS YOU ALL THERE.
Well things have certainly changed now! 2022 its getting harder and harder to buy,especially on the two pretty little islands, Lamb and Karragarra. We had a slight preference for Lamb as it has the little general store thats saved us many trips over to Macleay or Russell for a few groceries. And the meals at the Lamb Recreation Club are fantastic! There has definitely been a change in who lives here now. Since Covid and the Brisbane floods, we have people coming over walking up and down the streets, looking for anything for sale. At the moment the only houses left for sale on Lamb are the doer uppers. Our friends are rushing over whenever anything gets listed on Karragarra but this week they missed a beautiful house with pool and outdoor spa because it sold in Four Days! Gone are the times when owners trying to sell sat there for years! Land has almost sold out on both Lamb and Karragarra, agents are dropping leaflets in our letterboxes asking if anyone is thinking of selling because they have buyers waiting! Such a vast change in such a short time! A year ago we looked on both Lamb and Karra and had so many houses to choose from! Now the nice ones are all sold. We were exceptionally lucky to get a lovely three bed two bath on Lamb just before things really went crazy and before prices went up. Our house has just been valued at $75k more than we paid! It has air conditioning, decks front and back, beautiful modern bathrooms and kitchen just updated before we bought, lockup double garage, solar panels , beautiful established gardens. We struggle to find improvements to do!
Janel6. I think you are most definitely not suited to this beautiful natural paradise Macleay Island. Everything you stated is absolutely not true. Maybe you are either unwell and view life at Macleay island very negatively. People who live at Macleay island are genuine helpful and friendly without being overbearing, there is so much to enjoy especially the pollution free environment, lots of friendly wildlife, very little traffic, amazing ocean views, fresh sea breezes, houses, land and rates are so affordable. Chemist and local shops are well priced, health shop offers 20% discount 1 x monthly. Art gallery is high quality, there are many amenities and social events, clubs that no one should ever be bored. It is a safe place to raise a family. In 2022 properties are selling fast and with the new renovations to Macleay Jetty and the upcoming huge Redland Bay Marina development will make Macleay island and all the close by islands well sought after residential places to live relax in a holiday ambience whole year round.
Macleay island is just like everywhere else in Australia and overseas regarding mosquitos & sandflies which can be avoided if people stop having any stale water in gardens, avoid being outdoors too early in morning and late evening. Use natural safe repellent sprays and make up your own in body lotions. Plant herbs such as citronella, lavender, rosemary, peppermint, basil, lemon balm, garlic chives, etc. around garden.
I do not wish to denigrate SMBI. There are coastal areas in Australia where sandflies and Mosquitos are prevalent. Certainly in twelve years of travelling, most inland areas are relatively free of sandflies and mosquitos. My experience of islands other than Macleay is limited, but on Macleay they are much more prevalent than many places, with sandflies overtaking mosquito numbers. This is also the case, to a lesser degree, in Redland Bay where I live. The council can spray to kill the larvae of mosquitos, but not sandflies, because such poisons would kill most other species of insects including bees. If people are interested in living on the islands, they could check with council.
It is supply and demand. There are around 200 vacant blocks with building approvals at around 20 per year. In around 4-5 years this oversupply will start to dry up and prices will rise. I lived on Macleay as a child is it a lovely place to live., and I own land there that I bought 15 years ago. Back then price was 10-20 thousand for a block and there were around 500-600 blocks for sale. With many vacant blocks, it takes time for the supply to run down, and people who want to sell need to reduce the price to sell while the buyer has many choices and all the bargaining power. however in a few more years as supply reduces prices will rise.
It is a rare find. Very few people know Macleay island exists. I only found out when I googled for a small nice island very close to mainland. It is extremely affordable currently to live here atm. However with the upcoming renovation to Redland Bay Marina the island property prices may become very expensive residential area
Because it is a bit of a hidden gem. Still evolving. So much building and so many new houses since we moved here 7 years ago. You can still buy a lovely view without spending a fortune. Looked at replacing that view on the mainland but it costs "mega Bucks".
The island has distinct areas and they are different even climate wise. It has a lot of interesting residents from all walks of life. There are artists, potters, authors, tradies, and lots of retirees from all walks of life.
Any suburb has a down side but only if you go there.
All in all it is a beautiful and peaceful place to be.
Th ferry rides though inconvenient at times still beats sitting in mainland traffic hands down.
Like everywhere it is what you make it
A rare well kept secret pearl within the National Heritage Protected Moreton Bay Islands that is what Macleay Island is! However with the forthcoming cultural development the Marina at Redland Bay will allow more frequent cheaper transport to and from the Island. Although land and house prices are extremely affordable in comparison with Brisbane and its suburbs this will change much and will escalate making Macleay Island an expensive and elite place to live in and enjoy away from the polluted mainland.
Currently many professionals such as Doctors, Artists, Complementary Practitioners, Teachers and other such like are moving to Macleay Island for the peace and amazing wildlife
To all peoples, if you worry about what people might say about you, then by all means you would never survive here, but if you grow some you know whats, you may just say, bugger them all and do what makes you happy. If you live your life worrying about other people's views and even worse, raising your children with the same hangups, then you have not learnt life's lessons. At the end of the day you will be in your coffin by yourself, you had better start realizing that! Enjoy the mainland with all the other try-hards! Have met more people and know their first names in 7 years of living on the islands than I did in my previous 57 years on the mainland.
Seriously a good alternative for retirement..Do your homework even rent a few months on the island of choice to see if you like it but you would own your own home sea for fishing good soil for growing wildlife yes and mosquitoes but you can work around these things just come and see good luck.
I am retired and over 60 a widow I researched what is best an over 55village where there are just as much negativity as being on Macleay Island. But there at least its a great bunch of people safer than mainland ok no fees associated with a unit or living community style .Yes lots of mosquitoes and prices in groceries a bit expensive but you have a great area to grow your own veggies fishing in the sea a friendly pub and club with a helpful community and activities to keep you active. I would seriously do your homework and think of it as a viable alternative for retirement....good luck
We currently live on the Northern Beaches of Sydney. Great points? 15mins to the best beaches in area. Awesome restaurants, food, schools, services, you all know the drill. I live central on the beaches. 40-50mins in peak time to the city by bus. 20mins to Chatswood station which means yo can go literally in any direction from there. Trains every 3mins.
Shops? I have never locked my house since moving here 20years ago. I don't even know what it looks like or where it is. OK car is a different story.
So what's the point of me saying this? HOW MUCH DO WE PAY FOR THIS LIFESTYLE? If you rent a great home expect $1000-1200/wk (WTF?). If you want to buy right now.. a great home will cost you a cool $2.5M and that's just average good home. It's even more insane if you go to good becoming-Chinese areas. A 60yo home in Epping now costs around $2.5M. which buys you a fibro clad, 2 bedder tiny house.. and let's not mention the parking!!
It is supply and demand. There are around 200 vacant blocks with building approvals at around 20 per year.
In around 4-5 years this oversupply will start to dry up and prices will rise.
I lived on Macleay as a child is it a lovely place to live., and I own land there that I bought 15 years ago. Back then price was 10-20 thousand for a block and there were around 500-600 blocks for sale.
With many vacant blocks, it takes time for the supply to run down, and people who want to sell need to reduce the price to sell while the buyer has many choices and all the bargaining power.
however in a few more years as supply reduces prices will rise.
Check this map https://spp.dsdip.esriaustraliaonline.com.au/geoviewer/map/planmaking/
Many of the vacant cheap blocks are zoned as protected habitat and can't be built on.
Because it is a bit of a hidden gem. Still evolving. So much building and so many new houses since we moved here 7 years ago. You can still buy a lovely view without spending a fortune. Looked at replacing that view on the mainland but it costs "mega Bucks".
The island has distinct areas and they are different even climate wise. It has a lot of interesting residents from all walks of life. There are artists, potters, authors, tradies, and lots of retirees from all walks of life.
Any suburb has a down side but only if you go there.
All in all it is a beautiful and peaceful place to be.
Th ferry rides though inconvenient at times still beats sitting in mainland traffic hands down.
Like everywhere it is what you make it
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I lived on Macleay island for 5 years. My guess on why the land is cheap consists of the following : ferry is expensive without pension card costs close to 10 dollars each way, septic tanks poor drainage due to sandy soil in most locations prepare to have trenches re dug, groceries are expensive 7 dollars for a bottle of cordial, swarms of mosquito's and sand flies especially after rain if you have children be prepared for plenty of skin infections and school sores because of this, rents are cheap so you can expect a high turnover of crappy people, the Black outs there's nothing unusual about a 2 day blackout.
Macleay is quite lovely. The views would cost an arm and two legs on the mainland. It is peaceful. Traffic is minimal. The ferry ride is enjoyable. Beats sitting in traffic on the mainland hands down. The community has artists, authors, potters and people from all walks of life. Nobody cares what job you held. All that matters is who you are now. You can socialise at bowls club, golf club, MIAC (Art Gallery) or be a hermit. Location does matter. Some areas have better sea breezes and views but other areas are more affordable. All in all it is a lovely lifestyle. The city is quite reachable with a bit of effort. The longer you stay the less the inclination to go to the mainland. We are thinking of a mainland move due to health reasons but just can't replace what we have here without paying a fortune.
i love it with these people whinging and moaning about purchasing land here , firstly do your research , what do you want it for , to build and live on , or to make a quick buck???? that i doubt you will in this economy .,
to live here as i do , for what you have here , a big country town 1 hour from the cbd , 15 minutes to the mainland and a bus service that will take you anywhere you want to go , so the prices are a little bit more ,so , the island and the peace far outweighs that possibility of a get rich quick attitude some people have
Water taxi, food, drinks at the pub cost extra and parking on the mainland is hard to find.
the marker shows the blocks in karrawarra st. Those were bought all as one lot originally. A developer was going to build six townhouses there but the application failed as the land has substantial rainwater runoff from the adjacent blocks of land. The subdivision was done but the land just sat! Now it is zoned conservation and no building permits would be allowed. Other land is much cheaper too, because the sales run in about 5-7 year cycles. In the big leap forward in 2004-5 17 builders were working on the island and many new residents came. Most people stay about the same 5-10 years and spec buildings fall over in the usual downturns. They become rentals.
You have to catch a ferry from the island to the mainland. So note easily accessible .
Lived Macleay for 12 months, now on Lamb 6.5 years in own home. Suggest you read all the other comments here to become informed: this may help also: rates approx $220 pm, includes water rates. Petrol about 5 - 10% dearer on Macleay or Russell than on the mainland, there is a pump at Five Star towards middle of the island and a pump at the garage on Russell Is. Lamb has jerry cans avail at the local convenience store only. Groceries: stores: Five Star, Spar on Macleay or IGA on Russell Is, or Woolworths deliveries. We now use Woolies, rather than cart, as we are older, buy unlimited annual del. card, $15 pmonth for Tues,Wed,Thurs del. OR $19 pmonth for seven day delivery. SMBI ferry pricelist: copy this link: https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/review?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:d3489a66-d938-4c05-b7c5-e28ef9b04c78 Half price rego, if you leave your car on the islands, some people have two cars, one on the mainland as well (full price rego) then you have the hassle of finding a car park or waiting for an available space in the council lock up car park, 2 year wait? I believe. Or Transdev buses come right to the marina, take you in all directions, in peak time, one bus all the way to the Brisbane CBD, off peak you will need to change once or twice. You can get to Garden City Westfield, Logan Hyperdome and Carindale Westfield all a ferry and one bus ride away, or fairly major shopping at Victoria Point. State primary schools on both Macleay and Russell Islands, State High School at Victoria Point, a ferry ride and one bus ride away. Private or faith primary and high schools also in the Redlands or Logan, also a ferry ride and one bus away. Internet and NBN available now on the islands. When you think about it, any small town would have same extra costs, but they are not surrounded by water, the quiet, wonderful fauna/birds, great boating, fishing, breezes, usually at least 2 degrees cooler than Brisbane itself, sometimes even cooler, usually more rain, treed streets, some not sealed, but most, I believe are now sealed and with a population of approx max of $9 - 10k, in total on all 4 islands, most live on Macleay and Russell Island as they are the larger of the 4 islands out here. Building: you have to allow for the cost of putting in a septic tank as no sewerage on the SMBI's. Costs are extra for transporting building supplies to the islands, or avoid all that and simply buy an already established home with all already in place. It is a personal choice to live out here, every family has to make their own decision. Good luck
Russell Island is booming on the Brisbane Bayside. Checkout these amazing news items
The Great Day Out http://bit.ly/RedlandCoastSouthernIslands
https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1640870036016883&id=103832643053971
"Buy land for the price of a holiday:
https://m.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/buy-land-for-the-price-of-a-holiday/3837053/
"Four islands in southern Moreton Bay set to receive ferry terminal upgrades in government deal"
http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/redlands/news-story/3af6e77afdc58e84edc802b758803aff
7 News Brisbane https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2596083143737855&id=130736376939223
Brisbane Property Investor https://qldpropertyinvestor.com.au/queensland-to-rank-among-best-state-markets-in-2019/
"It is cheaper to buy than rent in this south east Queensland island paradise"
https://www.realestate.com.au/news/it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent-in-this-south-east-queensland-island-paradise/
Get Inspired at https://www.instagram.com/russellisland.qld/
And from last year "Best bargain suburbs for buyers in 2018"
https://www.realestate.com.au/news/best-bargain-suburbs-for-buyers-2018/
Note Queensland rates include all water supply and usage costs.
See 2019 quarterly rates notice below for Redland City Council for 690m2 block with 3 bedroom home Russell Island 4184.
Redland City Council Charges & Rebates
General Rate Category 2a Min $273.25
Rural Fire Brigade Special Charge $5.00
Environment Charge $28.89
Landfill Remediation Charge $10.97
Redland City SES Administration Charge $1.75
Utility Charges
240Lt Waste / Recycle (Island) $102.35
State Government Charges & Rebates
Emergency Management Levy – Class E Group 2 $26.65
Local Government Distribution and Retail Price
Water fixed access charge $ 65.90
Water Consumption - Residential $ 11.21
State Bulk Water Price
Bulk Water Consumption $ 52.21
Total Water and Wastewater Charges $ 129.32
Hi.
Just wanted to know what's the deal with buying a house on Macleay Island ? Do you need to have a 50% deposit?
Lovely if you are retired or work from home. If you need to get to the mainland to work, you might want to think again. We would have bought there, but work constraints stopped us. Best decision we could have made. We now live in Redland Bay. Also the moscitoes and sand flies are horrendous as are the crime rates, but then again the land is cheap.
I have lived on Macleay Island, for six years, as a retiree.I sold basic 2brm 1 bath unit in Cleveland, due to rotten tenants in two of three allocated Dept of housing units next door. Ongoing police call outs & raids, bashing, partying, as can happen, sadly everywhere. Its nonsense suggesting Macleay Island has serious problems here, I know of only 1 burglary here. I swopped Cleveland unit for under $300th. I bought top area, lovely home, 1054sq mtr heavily treed beaut garden block, peep of sea from large verandah, 3 brm,2bath, double garage. At Redland bay I couldn't get this for twice the price, and only a 16 minute ferry ride away.. It is a happy engaged community of all ages, like most, lots of great things, some not. It's a paradise and ALL emergency services stationed here on Macleay, 2 police,fire brigade & truck, ambulance ,water ambulance, ambo helicopter for emergencies direct to hospital. A variety of doctors, chemist, pathology, in brand new medical centre. Its essential to come stay, a few times, can be slow to sell. Far more to do here than most suburbs. It's want you put in, as little or as much as you like, that's the key anywhere. We have childcare, pre school,school, church, free bus/ ferry service to Vic Pt high school. Bowls-top restaurant, golf, boat,clubs,tavern all with buses to collect you from ferry. Two supermarkets, 2 coffee shops, pizza, fish chips. A highly regarded Art and pottery workshops at gallery, and library. A local hall used for crafts, reading group, ukele, movie nights, plays, meetings, dances, to name a few. A large new community centre hall, skateboard park, RSL, Lions, OP shop.House & particularly land sales on Macleay Island are moving upwards....
Great to hear the positive comments and the real cons too. Island living not for everyone I get it. Looking at semi-or retired and the doing a bit of travel and using the island as a base. Definitely want to get involved in what sounds like a great community and bring what IO can to the island to make it a better place for all. Its really about community no matter where you live. Thanks for all the tips people above. Sounds like a few long weeks ends her win the near future and then maybe renting the way to go. Can wait
Macleay island is not bad at all. My parents live there and the place is beautiful. Lots of wildlife very relaxed living. The cons are the hassles of travel etc. But there are medical dental, vet services etc on the island and even a couple of places to eat or go out open part of the week. For anything major you'll need the mainland. My parents do their grocery shopping at ALDI in bulk on the mainland and then transport it back. To do this they either travel with their car on the barge every 4-6 weeks or they do smaller weekly trips from the ferry and take a shopping cart. They have a car kept in the mainland in the (paid) council carpark so they have the flexibility to do this. They were waiting for a spot for 3 years for this carpark. Many others take the bus to places like Victoria Point and get food for a week or two and transport it back with a portable shopping trolley. My parents also grow a lot of their own food. They plan well so they don't end up buying groceries that aren't good quality at overinflated prices from the IGA for example. They do shop produce at a lovely produce shop they have on Macleay island now when there's something in particular they want and can't get to the mainland. They love the community the island has, they have a more active social life than their children. They are retired now so can afford the extra time and planning that goes into making it work without spending a fortune. My parents are both heavily involved in the arts community there also. It's a great place to be if you're an artist. They sometime miss conveniences but all in all are very happy with the lifestyle. They have a glimpse of the ocean from their property and the beach is only a few minutes walk.
love Macleay. You can buy water views for a fraction of the price on the mainland. Very peaceful. Love waking up to a beautiful view very morning. Absolute waterfront is lovely but high maintenance. Great if you kayak or have a boat though. A road back has advantages. Many great options on Macleay. Woolworths deliver to your door.
Hi Jemmasimon,
Basically, there are several factors or reasons why some land like in Macleay Island are cheaper than the others. If you want to find out more about property investing, feel free to check out http://www.capitalwealthproperty.com.au/ to learn more!
Cheers!
Hi Jemmasimon,
Basically, there are several factors as to why properties such as in Macleay Island are cheap. Among these are accessibility to water, electricity, and transportation. If you want to know more about property investing, check out http://www.capitalwealthproperty.com.au/ for more information.
Have a great day!
I love Macleay Isl, but wouldn't live there permanently mostly because of the inconvenience. This could be overcome if they built a bridge from Russell Isl to the mainland. The other islanders could then take a water taxi to Russell, pick up their cars there to drive over the bridge to the mainland. Car barges would be much cheaper going to Russell from the other islands rather than travelling the much longer route to the mainland. Much more land on Russell for car parking and less complaints because everyone would understand the need for car parking.
Hi Jemmasimon,
There's usually a good reason! Have a browse of some property investing forums to get more detailed feedback, here's a start
http://www.propertyinvesting.com/forums/property-investing/general-property/16473
Regards,
Andrew
Hi patty, Jamie here I am trying to contact you regarding 11 maher can you please email me on [email protected] thank you