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Macleay Island
4.2(20 reviews)

Macleay Island, QLD 4184

4.2(20 reviews)

Ranked 160th best suburb by locals in Brisbane Region, QLD

Great for

  • Safe and sound
  • Clean & green
  • Neighbourly spirit
  • Peace and quiet
  • Cost of living

Not great for

  • Public transport
  • Gym and fitness
  • Nightlife
  • Shopping options
  • Parking

Who lives here?

  • Families With Kids
  • Professionals
  • Retirees
  • Singles
  • Country Lovers

Reviews of Macleay Island, QLD

2nd July 2022

"Splendour in Paradise"

Island offers tranquility, pure breezes, glorious views, friendly community spirit, various groups/clubs activities, artisan gallery, markets, relaxation in perfect harmony with nature, min traffic, house, land is cheaper in comparison to mainland, free passenger ferry between the 4 islands for residents. Passenger ferry direct to mainland is 12mins & vehicle 35mins.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
1
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Looking for a home in Macleay Island?

"Great place to live"

Beautiful, clean, green and quiet!
Friendly natives
Great artistic community
Could do with a few more footpaths, street lights, and a sewerage system.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
4
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"Our Hidden Gem"

Since moving to MacLeay Island one year ago, myself and my Husband have met and made many new friends. The Island is a wonderful place to live and the people are helpful and kind. Re-locating from the mainland to a small community like this one is definitely the best decision we made. We have our lives back and socialise with other like minded Islanders. I've joined the local drama group, started a Weight Loss Support Group on the Island, my Husband is getting back into playing golf and of course, their are the beautiful beaches for us to explore. Our fur babies absolutely love Island Life and if they are happy, we are happy. Island life is definitely for us.

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
4
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"Relaxing Retreat Wildlife Paradise"

Macleay Island is a precious gem hidden secret beautiful retreat wildlife paradise in the National Protected Moreton Bay Heritage Area.
My family and I highly recommend Macleay Island. *****5star
I have travelled extensively around world and lived in a few countries including states in Australia, I wanted to completely change my lifestyle and was pleasantly surprised how Macleay island is so natural full of wildlife, rainforests, unassuming friendly locals, land and houses are so affordable and only 12mins travel on passenger ferry and 35mins vehicle ferry to Redland Bay then 35mins off peak to heart of Brisbane City.
My house is by a nature reserve has uninterrupted magnificent ocean views, weather is fabulous with unpolluted fresh air breezes, neighbours are quiet and caring without being intrusive, my hobby herb and vegetable patches are thriving.
I would never wish to live in polluted city again with unaffordable housing, cars bumper to bumper and stress daily.
Island life at Macleay provides a safe environment to raise a family, working from home can provide adequate income. Groceries and almost anything can be shopped on line and delivered to your doorstep.
***In year 2020 land is so cheap in comparison to mainland Brisbane, suburbs and other states, you can build or buy already built your own dream home and enjoy total relaxation, fresh ocean air and happy life***
Macleay Island is ideal for ocean, rainforest, country and nature lovers, artisans, writers, young families, professionals and anyone who wishes to reconnect back to their Heart, Soul and heal.
With the upcoming 2021 Redland Bay Marina development means transport to and from mainland should be much cheaper, boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops etc will be minutes away from Macleay island.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
2
Siobhan Chisholm
Siobhan Chisholm

Hi Dalila, can you advise the average rate costs? looking at this island and just wanted some real info from someone who lives there who can advise the main pros and cons

Carmel Beattie
Carmel Beattie

Around $430 per quarter

Dalila Lacquiere
Dalila Lacquiere

Hi. Rates depends on size of land, position and
Council land valuation. I have 1002 sq mtr double storey house and I pay appx $570 per quarter includes water, ambulances including helicopter and other amenities.
I know someone in Logan Kingston land size appx 700 sq m pays appx $800 per quater inc water and ambulance.
I recommend you could phone Redlands Council and Real Estate agents for further help.

evpo
evpo

I pay $670 per quarter on 730sq mar land.

wayner22

Hi Dalila I am in the process of negotiating a price for a small acreage on the island, and I have a married couple who are good friends who live there and I did ask them what my chances are of meeting someone single on the island, but they didn't really know, so maybe you could tell me if there are many single women who live there, it's not a huge issue but is something I have thought about when I move out there

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"As Private and Peaceful as you desire"

I've only lived on Macleay for 18 months. It's been a big adjustment from Surfers Paradise. The longer I'm here the more I'm loving it. I personally wouldn't live in the middle of the island. I'm enjoying my tidal property on the eastern side. It takes time to adjust to having to use a ferry but it's only 18 minutes. People in Brisbane use ferries into the City which takes a lot longer than 18 minutes. Then if you live in Sydney using the ferry system - well, I shall say no more about that. I just don't know or understand why the travel to the islands has to be such a drama. I'm on a pension so it's quite cheap. Then if you hop on a bus you pay no more for the remainder of your travel.

Yes, I too look at some of the people on the ferries and think to myself, oooh, do they live on my island!!! However, I never see them once I'm on my island paradise.. I live in a nice area where I only see my neighbours when walking their dogs. Albeit that houses and is cheap one does need to be observant of the neighbourhood you are looking to buy in. Very very cheap is for a reason. First agent I used never took me to the home I bought on the rim - probably because it was actually cheaper than others inside the island. I didn't want anything he showed me so tried another agent. To my surprise she brought me to my home outside which were three real estate signs, one of which was the agency I'd gone around with the previous day. So if you are planning to buy, either use all the agents or stay at an Air Bnb for a week and drive all around the island by yourself.

My friends so love to visit when they can. They still work but don't whinge at all at the cost of the ferry because they have a Gocard. So it would be advisable to tell your friends and family to get one. It's not a problem unless you want to make it a problem. Perhaps buy them yourself with some money on them and give them as Xmas gifts.

As for mossies and midgies. Anywhere there's water you'll get them. Yes, worse inside the island. The breeze at the back of my property which is on wetland does keep them at bay However, go into my front garden I'm eaten alive. Live on the canals on the Gold Coast you will be very bothered by them. Live in Brisbane along any of the creeks or iver and you'll get them. Have a friend living in an upmarket suburb backing on parkland with a creek and she's just bought a mosquito holder at the island health shop. She spent up big on the island on her first visit at the health shop which she loves, the case at Emerald Isle, she even went berserk at the pharmacy because being Xmas coming up they had her favourite skin product at a great price. The pharmacy on Macleay is as good as any on the mainland.
I've recently been desperately sick enough to go the doctor next to said pharmacy and was surprised that the Indian doctor I saw was quite thorough. My GP is just across at Redland Bay shopping village. This doc was happy to make sure my GP received a copy of my X-ray results. I'd be more than happy to see him again. I'd change doctors except that I spend a lot of time on the mainland and just don't want to change again. Redland Bay Surgery is close enough. 18 min enjoyable ferry ride and a couple of minutes on the bus.
Translink have a bus station at the marina. The services take you to the City, Loganholme, Garden City or Carindale Shopping centres as well as to the train station and shops, Centrelink, X-ray centres and specialists at Cleveland. There's a bus to the Mater Private and Redlands hospitals and specialist centres. If you want to go to the business hub at Capalaba then the buses go there. There's two shopping centres in Capalaba.
oria Point is only 12-15 minutes on the bus - free if you've come from the ferry. There is good grocery shopping and lovely restaurants on a lake setting and a cinema whuch would have to be the cheapest in South-east Qld.
So, there are ways to get around if you choose not to have another vehicle on the mainland.
Should you choose to have a car on the mainland rather than the island you can use the SMBI bus which, if you buy their form of a Gocard only $5 to anywhere on the island or $6 with no card. However, should you have friends come to visit them the taxi may work out cheaper as the SMBI service charges per person because it's a little bus not a taxi although it's still a pick-up service. Unfortunately the taxis aren't the best but a necessary evil in circumstances outlined above.
The cost of land and homes far outweighs the costs of living. Rates are half of what it cost me on the Gold Coast. That would well and truly cover the cost of running two cars. Yes, parking on the mainland can be very stressful, however, if I do t get one I park a lot further away and catch a bus. Problem solved. It would probably be just as safe, if not safer, parked in a street in Redland Bay near a bus stop.
As a former Court Reporter having worked and lived in a very fast-paced environment I loved it on Macleay at first but then hated it. I missed Surfers and the closeness of amenities and loved the tram, but persevered and am now very settled and happy but it has taken me 18 months to fully appreciate my surroundings. I go back to Cavill Avenue often to look after a former neighbour's cat. So that's my free holiday without the cost of living in high rise and crippling rates. There are lots of house sits available around the Gold Coast. House sitting is what I do whenever I want time on the mainland.
Life is what you make it. Discard the negatives. You don't have to have anything to do with ferals that one reads about. It's just rubbish and should be treated with total disregard. I feel very safe living on my own. As a former Court Reporter I can assure you crime is far less than on the mainland, and in fact Gold Coast would beat Macleay hands down. Logan is a crime hot-spot as is Caboolture, and more to the point, affluent suburbs are the targets not the Bay Islands. So heed not any adverse comments re the crime situation. I've certainly observed police presence on Macleay.

So, do come and try before you buy but you will love it. There are slums but there are also beautiful upmarket homes on Macleay. You just need to familiarise yourself as to where those enclaves are.

Cheers
Josie

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
10
bretts22

Thank you for a great review. I spent a number of years living in Cleveland. I am now looking at returning to Australia and have been searching the properties in this area. Am I right in thinking theres a disparity between Russell and Mcleay?
Nice to see you talk about rates as they seem to be one of two major issues when you retire. Rates and Power will always go up. Are there any issues with putting in tanks on you property for extra water. Are there any other hidden costs, you mentioned the ferry. $100 to the mainland for a vehicle and/or passengers as well or is that extra.
Living on a small island is a psychological step/leap of faith, leaving all that ease of access and availability behind I suppose.
We have five years left before my son finishes college and then he can go do whatever he likes, if Uni tickles his fancy then so be it. But well be gone. Means testing at retirement? Im Australian/New Zealand so complicated as Government would not pay when I move back, which means we must fend for ourselves over there I suppose. Anyway nice review, Cheers.

helenc32

great and very helpful Josephine. Please could you advise which is best for sea breezes..East or West side and north south or central? Thank you so much Helen

georgid1

What agent did you use please?

al4

The East side of the island gets the best breezes, and doesn't get the burning hot afternoon sun like the West side.

al4

More facilities and social things to do on Macleay than Russell Island. Macleay costs a bit more to buy on, but it has more cultured people. Woolworths delivers to Macleay. Ambulance is very prompt. Lots of activities and social groups to choose from and work if you really look for it. Lots of people with their own small businesses

al4

Eating and drinking out is cheaper than the mainland. Bowls, Golf and Boat Clubs have courtesy buses. Dan Murphy's deliver to Macleay also. There are community markets.

lisa-nicholsonl

I currently live in Victoria and am interested in buying land on Macleay Island to live on in approx 10years time. Are you able to shed light more specifically on what areas of the island are occupied by rough/feral residents? I am not able to afford waterfront land but would like something in the nicer neighbourhoods of Macleay Island. Thanks Lisa

wsheppard
wsheppard

Im looking at buying a property on the island, are you permitted to have any chickens for free range eggs.

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Find real estate agents in Macleay Island

"Checkout this"

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/

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"Do your research!"

Lacking of reliable tradesmen. The petrol pump is often out of service and outrageously expensive.

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"CONSIDER THIS BEFORE MOVING TO MACLEAY ISLAND"

Firstly, it's like turning your clock back 25 - 30 years - to the way things were! This is a close knit,friendly small town, surrounded by the sheltered waters of Moreton Bay. A great advantage is that you have country living, on a pretty island, which by ferry then car is only an hour 15mins from the Brisbane CBD.

There seems to be two different demographics living on Macleay Island, differentiated between the more expensive properties with beach access 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 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!!. Macleay Island is more hilly than most people realize.

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 motorized 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 barge 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, browsing and purchasing delights available on the mainland.... you wouldn't come to these islands to shop!! The 2 supermarkets have been run down in the last couple of years by the new owners - same family, so there's no competition and their prices are extraordinarily high. However Woolworths do deliver grocery orders several days per week. Like most of our friends we book our vehicles on the barge on our Frequent Floaters' discounted rate of $100. return once a month or so, do a big shop, meet friends, 'do' the shops, see a movie perhaps, or go to dinner with the family there. We are always delighted with our choice of 'our place to call home' when we return, and, don't want to live anywhere else!

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. 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 few rat bags or ferrals, but, honestly, they seem only to be visible on the public transport passenger ferries sometimes, or, at the local Pub which we and our friends never venture into. 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 Island 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! Karragarra Island across 100 metres of swiftly flowing water is lovely too...visit for a 45 minutes walk around or enjoy their great beach. The Passenger Ferries offer free transport between these islands.

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 Here there's none of that!

Be warned. If you are contemplating coming to these islands to live, thoroughly do your homework. Know what you want out of life know yourself, and, understand what you are coming to. Consider the costs involved, consider the lifestyle here, and consider the inconveniences which you may not be prepared to subject yourself to in years to come. As others who came here on a whim, DONT BLAME THE ISLAND for your lack of research. Most of us absolutely love it and wouldnt live anywhere else! I consider that it takes a self-sufficient, organized person with good values to really enjoy island life.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Families with kids
11
Kevin Collison
Kevin Collison

Sounds very serious

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"A Beautiful Green Escape with Friendly People!"

Macleay Island is an absolute gem of an island, The house prices are cheap, the homes are unique and people are friendly! Yes it's not for everyone, but if we expected the same it would be boring.
I will never understand why people move here if they want convenience, clearly brainless. I commute 1 hour and 15 minutes to a from work and because it's a routine you get use to it, the boat ride is nice and relaxing and sometimes you just have to appreciate life.

Once on Macleay, you generally relax - especially after a long day, I love the nature, wildlife and the relaxed attitude. For those who say their are "ferals" well newsflash they are everywhere no matter where you go, even internationally.

If you love the water, nature, cheap purchase price of homes, neighbourhood vibes and a relax approach on life then Macleay would suit you.

If your a workaholic and need to be somewhere within 30 minutes then no, or even would like cheaper rates and more general convenience don't move here in the first place.

7
micks4

Hi Ada. What about jades5's comments in this section...they are very concerning

Brett Thornhill
Brett Thornhill

Professional person, islander for the past 15 years, kids went through the primary school.. Now at uni... Absolutely love the place and the lifestyle, its not for everyone.. But if it is, it really is...Love this place..

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"Don't move there! Warning! Any of those islands. Murder."

Macleay is very, very, expensive. Travel, ferry's, two cars, go cards, spar food shop prices and a lot of illness every winter from the ferry. Plus, even if you get the flu shot it doesn't work. People get crook for a month on Macleay and the Drs... Omg, eep. Has been banned from writing prescriptions apparently and has diagnosed my grandparents with allergies when they are crook and I mean crook for the 6th week.

Works out cheaper living off the island. High rate of drug users of all age, unemployed and the lovely elderly. Also you'll have to change to Telstra to get phone coverage. Barely coverage phone wise on the island for any other phone company. Most houses rented through Raywhite won't put the internet on either. They want you to pay 3-4 hundred to install the internet!? Then say they will reimburse you. Telstra is the only internet you can get, I've heard. The library which advertises internet and open is never open. I've never seen it.

People are friendly but seem to be hiding from the mainland. You'll find most people "Oh the mainland is too much for me, I never leave the island". When they go across to the mainland it a seems to be an all day event just to go across grocery shopping. The food cafe closes very early on a weekend before 1ish, exept spar, we have been to get lunch at the cafe near the post office a few times around 1pm Saturdays. We were told to go home as they were closed. When we did get into the parrot cafe I found a pubic hair in my toasted sandwich.
Macley island is about 20 years behind the times, but this is not to shame anyone just pointing out facts.

Great for elderly except there is no hospital so the water ambulance takes a while to come over from Redland Bay. Most of the time they are taking angry, yelling, ice users on the police boat. I wouldn't encourage raising children there as there isn't anything to do and the high drinking and drug use happening. There is a Primary school but no high school on the island. The rest of the people are unsavoury characters, unemployed and drug users.

You're on your own, the police are never around except picking up drug users every Friday and Saturday nights at the jetty where you catch the ferry. Google Macleay murder. People say the island is safe but there's a been a murder! It'scary catching the last ferry at 11ish. Then you can't get off the island. Male ferry staff especially one is very unfriendly and you cannot top up your go card on the ferry. So if your gocard is empty and the ticket booth is shut you are stranded. The ferry will leave without you. You have to get on a bus just to top up your go card.

The police station on and off the mainland closes very early every day. So you're on your own basically.
Crime rate is low due to under reporting or not reporting at all due to the lack of police presence.

Drug dealers, I have seen this. They seem very young with children and live in cheap shacks and never sleep. Domestic violence is an issue on this island also.

Lesbian and gay friendly. Mainly Aussies living there. Lovely beaches. Fishing. Kind of a hippy feel. Everyone has purple hair even the oldies which is interesting.

Parking is a MAJOR issue even though a new car park has been made. You could miss your ferry home or to work and be waiting up to 45 mins for a park. Other options are to pay $95 a month for parking on the mainland or park at an illegal house that offers slightly cheaper parking.

This is the information I wish I knew before I moved to the island. All the other islands are the same.

3
yvef
yvef

People should know what they want out of life and investigate places they'd be happy in before making a move. Much of what has been written here is gross exaggeration. We have lived here very happily and securely for 20 years and wouldn't live elsewhere! It's a beautiful life and we rarely see or learn of drug dealers or the like. But then, we don't hang about the Pub and don't know of any anyway.

ashag

Wow.... this post it ridiculous. Shame on you!!! I guarantee you there are drug dealers in every suburb. I hear murders all over the place.. I see the cop nearly everyday i so dont know where you get this info from but majority of it is very untrue... every suburb has ferals but most of the island is such lovley people and your just stamping a ugly lable on the whole island.

guyh

Been on Macleay ten years. Still love it. Jade5 should check facts before injuring the island reputation.
FACT: Drug use on Macleay is considerably lower per capita than most mainland suburbs.
Police are very dedicated, community minded and as efficient as their workload will allow.
Ferry staff are friendly (except one who is just grumpy, not evil).
Our paramedics are some of the best in Queensland. Urgent medical cases are airlifted the 10 minute flight to Bris or Gold Coast hospital depending on the nature of the incident. Jade5 should have "holidayed" on Macleay before moving here. Clearly she didn't think it through before committing. We rented for 5 weeks before deciding the island lifestyle was for us.
Maximum of 3 minutes drive to anywhere on the island and no traffic lights. I can't understand people willing to spend 20 days (in hours) a year at red traffic lights ( yes I worked it out based on my drive to work in the city.)
Entertainment options are aplenty. Boat club (Power boats, yachts, dinghies, dragon boats, outriggers & kayaks.), Bowls club, golf club and Pub Paradise. Volunteering options for those willing to contribute to the community. We find that most people who complain about the island moved here because it was cheap. They didn't consider the realities of making an "island lifestyle choice". Oh, did I mention we have an internet based business that has only had a couple of internet outages over ten years?

jenniferw18
jenniferw18

nudgem**Been on Macleay 16 years** I find Jades5 opinions very comical..I only know of one resident with consistent purple hair , unless she/he means my burgundy or violet...Maybe it was around "Halloween"Am surprised SHARKS were not mentioned, but that would be sexist.As far as drugs or domestics..well they don' last long as we do live on an island and they are rounded up by the police soon enough after all where are they going to hide..Ah that was it! Didn't like our escort service huh...

sg2

Jade obviously has psychological problems and should return to live on the mainland as soon as possible to get help.

jennyb23

I find it interesting to see people's reactions to when a person has a different view or perspective to other people "weighing in". This is far more telling than any five star review from a die-hard, territorial "local". sg2, insulting someones' mental capacity after they have made a careful, balanced comment reflecting their own personal experience is vicious. You actually display an element of this "undesirable" jades5 spoke of.

guyh

jennyb23 - Jaces5 comments were far from careful and balanced. She has called so many good people unsavoury. What is careful and balanced about that? When jades5 says "The rest of the people are unsavoury characters, unemployed and drug users. " I can only assume she mixes with the wrong people. For example, the island provides many volunteering opportunities - organisations full of worthwhile people who aren't unsavoury, unemployed or drug users. The boat club is full of people that contribute to that healthy and supportive organisation. We just feel compelled to comment when untrue assertions harm our wonderful island.

jennyb23

guyh, perhaps jades5 had to live at the end of town where she was subjected to such unpleasantness. I find her review balanced and reflective of her experience. Perhaps she would have a different view if she had her own small boat to commute to the mainland, and lived in a $300,000 home at the north end and joined the golf and bowling clubs. Of course her review would be different.
I can't see why you have trouble with another persons perspective of their own experience. She hasn't written any lies, she has shared her experience. You both have different experiences. She is entitled to review her experience.

guyh

Jennyb23 "The rest of the people are unsavoury characters, unemployed and drug users." is a lie.

jennyb23

guyh you need to learn to leave well enough alone.

guyh

jennyb23 Funny you say that when you need to have the last word, TWICE ! ;)

jennyb23

guyh It is not a lie, it is her opinion.

guyh

Then you wouldn't like my opinion of her opinion. Her opinion is simply incorrect.

christinea10

May I just ask, is the eastern side of the island the best all along the east or just some areas of the east coast line.?
Are most of the houses used for permanent living or mainly just school holidays letting?
As I am retired now and thinking of coming over with a view to purchase, I am not sure how to put this, but would there be any particular streets or areas that older more mature retirees live, without children, they can be very noisy and unsettling. Any children free areas? Thank you in advance.

guyh

Hi Christine, East for sunrise, west for sunset. Most island dwellers are retired. Having said that, the last few years have seen more and more workers commuting. Where you choose to live is more likely determined by what you want to do with your time. Best possible advice is come over and rent for a couple of months. This will allow you to determine if you like the island and where you'd prefer to live. My wife and I rented for five weeks before make any serious commitment to the island. That was just over 10 years ago. "Still loving it."

christinea10

Thank you so much I am asking on behalf off of a friend who is nearly 70 and like me, prefers the quiet isolated lifestyle he certainly is not wanting for large shops or any kind of entertainment. A good vet would be good as he has blue Staffy girls. I really appreciate your info. This site has some great info and I will keep following.

christinea10

Me again, what is the humidity like in summer, I understand the heat but humidity is what gets to me

guyh

It gets very humid. Another reason to "try before you buy" ;)
The winters are much milder than other places though.

christinea10

Ok thank you very much

jennyb23

guyh Is this your hobby...? hijacking other people's threads, then sitting on them and acting the authority on every given subject. God help anyone who disagrees with you in person, you'd probably shout them down where they stand too.

christinea10

Thank you guyh, I thought this was a group discussion. I appreciate all the info that guyh has given to me and a pleasant quick response. Sounds like I better get over there quick, do you need a hug mate ?

guyh

christinea10 Yes, a hug would be most welcome. I look forward to meeting you when you arrive. in fact shall we collect you at the jetty and show you around our wonderful island? No I'm not a real estate agent. In fact, I'm a volunteer who assisted with 3 medical airlifts in the last week. My wonderful wife performed CPR for one of those.

christinea10

Its great to talk to you, I am also a volunteer wildlife carer and would love to continue that. I am 62 retired I am in Mackay ( still) and my best friend is in Adelaide area. He is putting his home on the market in the next week or two. He is going to be the main person who wants to either rent 1st or buy on the island. He is retired and we both love isolation, he is a well known registered breeder of English Blue Staffies in SA. He has sailed up and down the Queensland and NSW coasts, he is very level headed and has an amazing array of talents to build and fix things, very handy as well as knowing the both of you are committed to helping the community in good health and not so good health.
It great to hear positives, and we are aware every community may have a few bad apples thats life. The quiet life will suit him down to the ground.
Take care and stay safe.

chrisc54

what i would like to know is about personal boat transport. is it viable
and bad weather travelling

guyh

As an oldie advising a youngie (you're 62 I'm 63), personal boat transport is not viable unless you work at least 5 days a week somewhere near Redland Bay Marina. Personal boat is a nightmare in bad weather.

We have an internationally qualified dog judge here on the island that would relish the interaction with your Staffie breeding friend. We also have off-shore sailors to boot which would make for lively conversation when he is in the mood. I was sailing master for our Tingira Boat Club for two years and vice comm for two years. Sounds like he'll fit like a glove, unless his nautical stories are bolder than mine ;)

christinea10

Thank you so much for your reply, it sounds so good that hopefully closer to the end of September both Ron and I could visit and check it out. His plan is to travel from Adelaide to Darwin and he is going to babysit one of his new owners pups. Then onto to Mackay where I am and travel down to the Brisbane area and over to the islands to have a look around. I know he would like to spend time checking everything out. Hopefully we will stay in touch as the time gets closer. Stay safe and well to both of you.

yvef
yvef

Greetings Christina10 and others reading this item. I heartily vouch for the honesty, sincerity and truthfulness of Guyh . He and his wife are community spirited volunteers much respected by Residents of Macleay Island and of many other Redlands Coasters.
To suggest that his opinions are "unbalanced" is ignorance! This is a person/couple whose awesome contribution to our Island life is greatly appreciated!

freeshia
freeshia

Wow everyone is allow to write how they feel. Not always bed a roses here. Ive been here long time too. The place has changed. Depends on who you want to socialise with. Most escape here for reasons. Others come here for affordability. Not all come here for island lifestyle. Comes down to this figure$$$ mostly.

Denise Kemp

Thanks so much to everyone who has taken the time to review. I think the best thing hubby and I can do is come for a visit. That way we can really get a feel for the island, sounds like our kind of layback lifestyle easing into semi retirement. We do enjoy the quiet simple life with a sense of community.
It certainly sounds like Macleay Island offers that.
Cheers, to everyone.

Dalila Lacquiere
Dalila Lacquiere

Macleay Island is a beautiful escape paradise away from the pollution congestion of mainland offers peace tranquility safety and pure ocean air fresh breezes amazing sunrises and sunsets. There are enough essential services on the island without having to commute. Everything can be also bought online. There are many groups to join and many facilities. This place is ideal to raise a family being so safe, its great for everyone and for younger generation can always commute to nightclubs on the mainland if they wish there are ferries available till late at night and very early mornings. Some people have 2 cars 1 would be parked on mainland.

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"So Impressed we purchased a block of land!"

We fell in love with it from the first time we went there. The Island has a good feel as soon as you step off the ferry from the mainland. We plan to retire in about 3 years time and we found the island has everything we need so we purchased a block of land in readiness for our retirement. Holidaying at first then building bit by bit. Love it!

Great for

  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Sun, sea, sand. Life is a beach!

Not great for

  • Don't come if you want a mainland lifestyle. It's different.
  • Parking problems at ferry terminals
  • Cost of commuting, many unsealed roads

Who lives here?

  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Country Lovers
4
The opinions expressed within this review are those of the individual and not those of Homely.com.au.
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"Big Value, Little Paradise where commuting is a waterbus trip!"

We moved to Macleay Island three years ago from Melbourne, after research, choosing Macleay over Russell (after holidaying on Russell). We rented first then bought a little place. I commute Monday to Friday to work via the ferry and it takes me 18 mins on the ferry plus about 50 mins in total to get to work. Yes, this does take some getting used to, but, all cities have this drama. If you have less than an hour's travel in Sydney then you are very lucky (many coastal dwellers there travel more than an hour for work). The ferries are frequent, and the trip is comfortable and friendly; and and I enjoy it. People know each other and chat or read on this service. I hop in my car a drive the remainder of my journey.

We are very happy on this Island. It is welcoming, peaceful and beautiful and has a low crime rate. Macleay has abundant marine life (dolphins, dugongs, turtles, fish), birdlife, delightful walks and a mild climate compared with the mainland (a degree or two warmer in Winter and cooler in Summer).

Macleay Island has much to do: Water sports - boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming; cycling, walking and public barbecue areas, state of the art skate park and a netted swimming area too. There are all the essential services: Doctor, Pathology, Dentist, Vet, Police, Ambulance, SES, Local Fire service, Primary School, Day care, Library, Chemist, Hairdressing, Petrol pumps, Bakeries, Pizza, Fish and Chips, Coffee Shops, home and garden supplies, Marine and Auto Supplies and supermarkets you require. Woolworths will home deliver as will Dan Murphy's if that is your thing (minimum quantities apply).

We have a Bowls Club (Club Macleay) and a Golf Club both of which also have food service and a regular entertainment line up. Both of these clubs provide courtesy bus services from the ferry, your home or rental accommodation. There is also a Boat Club that has a famous Fish and Chips night once per month; you can of course hire little catermarrans or kayaks.

Macleay has an Arts Centre and Gallery, with regular classes including pottery. We also have a modern Community Centre which is utilised by various groups, including a large crafters' group, which meet weekly. The Island offers Yoga, massage, and a number of artistic groups including a writers' network.

There are a number of annual events too including a round the island Kayak race, Inter-Island Tug of War, Barge Bash - great day out. Both clubs do a fabulous New Year's Eve night each year on top of their regular entertainment evenings.

So, what's not to like? Yes, there is a trade off with costs of commuting and having to navigate across the bay but if peace, reassurance and sense of community appeal, as it does to us, then it is well worth it.

With property prices some of the lowest in the whole of Australia, it truly is an affordable 'million-dollar lifestyle'.

The Fitzgibbons

Great for

  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Sun, sea, sand. Life is a beach!

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
8
CarolM

Hi...I've just read your review of the island. My husband and I were over there last week to look around, with the possibility buying land and building......There are a few thing that we were a bit concerned about, the mozzies and midgies. I've read that they are a problem,......I realise that the land is cheap, and this is the reason why, but just how bad are they????....what do you do to control them .......this was a big disappointment as we really liked the island...The other thing is that I was unable to find any walking tracks....do they exist?......
Would love these questions aswered before we go any further....

Carol

evpo
evpo

We hardly have any mosquitos! Choose a land north east faced or east faced, always blowing, in hot humid weather you still get nice breeze and that gets them away. If you go to the west side of the island or near the mangrove areas then you get midges and mosquitos for sure.

yvef
yvef

I agree with evpo. We live on the breezy East side. Great for keeping temperatures down during Summer and high humidity. It's the bushy interior of the island, or when no coastal breezes on the West side that you'd experience mozzies and midges...but then, we were always invaded on the Gold Coast when holidaying there.

rachelo6

There is a heritage trail that circles the island. Midgees and mozzies same as mainland, usually in summer months and at dawn and dusk. You do become immune to them.

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"A small town where everybody knows your name."

I've lived here for over five years and work at Macleay Island spar supermarket for two years here is my review.

Pros:
It's quite, there is very low crime, there is three police officers here 24/7 but they're relaxed, there is a lovely preschool and day care centre‎. Two big shops (one even has fuel pumps), parks lots of public parks here and beaches. An internet cafe, two restaurants, public toilets, jettys, dvd store, own fire, ambulance and police station lots of wild life, golf club a community center that has yoga and karate weekly and more.

Cons:
Cell phone reception drops out in some parts, there is no city no night life and once the water taxis close at 11 you can't go anywhere, Pub drinks and food cost twice as much due to being traveled over here, The locals don't like to say it but there is ALOT of Racism here, Water taxi is expansive and parking is a pain on there and alot of unfinished dirt roads.

If you want to know more or have any questions feel free to ask me.

Great for

  • Rent and homes are cheap to buy.
  • Country like everyone knows everyone and its quite.
  • Lots of parks to vist and beaches.
  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Sun, sea, sand. Life is a beach!

Not great for

  • Racism and far from city
  • Dirt Roads
  • Have to rely on water taxi times.
  • Isolated at night when ferry services stop
  • Don't come if you want a mainland lifestyle. It's different.
  • Parking problems at ferry terminals
  • Cost of commuting, many unsealed roads
  • Housing savings often lost after ferry fares and 2nd car costs

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
4
kitkatz

Are you able to elaborate about the racism? Against whom? Thanks.

flo802800

Yes same from here.

CarolM

I'd like to know about the mozzies and sandflies...just how bad are they...and, you mentioned the phone drop out, which ares?...and internet?.......would need a good connection as most of my work is done online...Thanks

PearlyF
PearlyF

My friend moved there two months back and no internet ever since? Can anybody throw light on this. Was thinking of going there too but with a home business no internet would be curtains.

stormye

Could you please be specific with the racism as Im a Maori hybrid will people call me racist slurs?

kathr1

Hi. I am big reader. Is there a library or library bus. Also why doesn't the ferry come there like it does to Russel island? Thanks

PearlyF
PearlyF

re my earlier post internet problem solved. That's it I'm sold on this wonderful place.

rachelo6

I don't know about the racism side if things as I've never seen or heard of it on the island. I use Vodafone 30gb broadband wifi for $40pm and it never causes me a problem. There is a library on Macleay open a few days a week. The ferry goes to all 4 islands and loops back to Redland Bay Marina. Sometimes it goes clockwise other times anti clockwise. Going to Karra and macleay first takes 18mins, going the other way 33mins. Inter island travel is free. Mozzies and midgees mostly in summer at dawn and dusk, same as mainland. Updates, most roads on macleay are sealed now. We now have a great cafe called Scorpion cafe to add to our dining options.

jenniferw18
jenniferw18

^5 rachelo6 SPOT ON....

evpo
evpo

Yes, all the cons are true what you commented on, BUT as soon as I step of the water taxi and I get close to my house, to my paradise, I forget all cons and I remember just the pros.

oliverwing

Racism lol... foreigners call it racism when someone looks at them curiously... Victim mentality. I have Vietnamese friends who call every sideways glance 'racism'. I tell them to go look up the definition of racism and rethink where they are. Many foreigners think they will be stepping into some kind of utopia, but what many fail to realise is that Australia is a tough country, a land of harsh weather extremes, and you have to be a little tough to survive here no matter where you are from, born here or not. It's people who claim racism expect a red carpet rolled out for them. Newsflash, you're on the bottom of the pile no matter who you are or where you're from or whether you were born here... each of us has to earn the trust and respect of each other in every place, group or country. Each of us has to make their way in life and in this country it's possible. For sure Aussies wouldn't be treated with a sliver of the respect and dignity in your Motherland that you are offered in Australia and THAT is a fact... So ask yourself, why are you here? What do you expect from people? the place? life? It's you who has to stretch and grow and fit in... You *chose* to come here. So choose to decide to understand the place and the people. .... and... it's a PRO that there's no "nightlife" in the sense you mean. There is loads of nightlife, the islands are absolutely teeming with nightlife. Get dressed, grab a torch and go outside for a walk... sit down by the water somewhere, be quiet and listen and watch... THAT is True night life.

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"Perfect retirement spot"

I'm a recently retired female and used to live on Straddie but after returning from a few years in rural Tasmania I chose Macleay over Straddie and I'm really glad I did - I just love it here.
For those who like a simple, quiet and relaxed lifestyle near the water and don't mind commuting or can work from home, then Macleay Island is perfect, and for age-pensioners like me it really is an affordable paradise. My transition to island living 10 years ago was an easy one as I'd been a country girl all my life, used to limited facilities and expensive and lengthy travel, but that's not the case for many people. Anyone contemplating a move to any of the bay islands needs to do thorough research via the Internet first and take a tour with Google Street View and Satellite - look at the condition of the roads, houses and surrounding bush, plot the distances with Google Maps to the shops, ferry and water and do a terrain check to make sure it's not somewhere requiring webbed feet. Finally, do your sums regarding how much it's actually going to cost you to live there, especially if you have to work, then come for a visit . If you're still keen, find somewhere to rent for 12 months - there's always heaps to choose from but even after doing all this you may find the reality of living on Macleay does not meet your expectations - it definitely has its Pros and Cons. I hope the following information assists you in taking that next step...or not.

THE PROS OF LIVING ON MACLEAY
- Properties for sale and rent are very cheap given its proximity to Brisbane and probably the main reason people choose to live here
- Water taxis run late enough to have a night out in Brisbane and still be able to get back home. It's a 15 minute trip and they run pretty much every half hour. Buses from and to Brisbane meet each boat at Redlands ferry terminal. Vehicle barges run almost every hour until the late afternoon but they're very expensive.
- There are good basic-necessity shops spread over 3 small centres (emphasis on small), located in the southern half of the island. Woolworths or the local carriers will deliver anything that can't be sourced on the island. Macleay has a primary school and early learning centre, various medical, community and emergency services along with several small businesses
- People are friendly and most neighbourhoods are very safe and quiet. There are very few holiday renters and no 'schoolies'
- From anywhere on the island, the water is within easy walking distance and although it is pretty much surrounded by mangroves there are a few small sandy beaches (no surf), some with BBQ facilities and one with a jetty. Surrounding waters are very shallow for some distance out so it's important to check tide times to ensure the water is high enough for a swim or to launch/land watercraft, or low enough to go for a walk
- For a night out with live basic entertainment there's a variety of venues on both Macleay and Russell . The islands are just a short ferry trip apart so it's easy to island-hop and pub/club courtesy buses pick up from home or the jetty, plus there's taxi services on both islands. Lamb Island often has something on offer too - transport not required.
- For other things to do there's a great cafe, a pub, golf club and bowls club (with wonderful bay views) - each with bistros, and a boat club with fortnightly Friday meals - anyone can join any of these clubs. Macleay is artists' heaven, has it's own Arts Complex and is very supportive of those who are creative. There's an organic market on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. For the more active there's cycling and walking - Macleay has a shared pathway which runs the full length of the island and cool leafy roads lead off this on either side. The school tennis courts are available for hire outside school hours- enquire at Foodworks. Moreton Bay is a kayaking, boating, fishing dream with a multitude of islands to navigate or pull up to. Macleay has two concrete boat ramps and several other vehicle access points at mid to high tide. On Russell there's an RSL and bowls club, a cafe, gym and swimming pool. Yoga, Dance, Fitness, Martial Arts, Gymnastics, Pilates, Tai Chi and more are conducted at the Macleay Island Community Centre
- There are primary schools on both Macleay and Russell but no secondary schools. However, most secondary students can be home pretty much within an hour of leaving school whether it be a state school or one of many good private schools.
- Macleay enjoys a wonderful sub-tropical climate, sheltered from the ocean swells by Straddie, and because the island is so small everyone benefits from the cooling bay breezes

THE CONS OF LIVING ON MACLEAY
- There is very little employment on the island so the majority of permanent residents commute to the mainland which is expensive at almost $70 a week for the water taxi leg alone plus for some islanders there is the additional cost of buying and keeping a second car there. For anyone contemplating a move to the islands it's important to do the sums first, then weigh them up against the lifestyle of island living including the inconveniences
- There is no bus service on Macleay but there is a mini-bus taxi which meets the ferries - best to book ahead. To get around the island people use scooters, push-bikes or motorbikes, but most have an island car unless they live close to the ferry terminal.
- Macleay probably isn't for new families with teens who have been used to having all the conveniences and facilities of mainland living. There's very little for them in the way of entertainment or recreation and no surf either
- Parking spaces near the island jetty fill up very early in the day but just up the hill there's usually plenty of spots. At Redland Bay parking facilities are in very short supply and this has been an issue for many years for those who need to keep a car there. Parking on the nearby streets is time limited so beware - cars can be clamped or trashed. There's a long waiting list for paid secure parking.
- Midges are a fact of life on the islands because of the mangroves and waterlogged blocks that can't be built on. The first two weeks after I arrived I was nearly eaten alive and it took a month of lotions and antihistamines for the itching and sores to heal. But I soon got into a routine of never going out mornings or evenings without putting on repellent and giving a quick spray over my head too. I read about Vitamin B1 being useful to deter midges and while it doesn't work for some people, it does seem to be working for me but it doesn't stop mosquitoes which fortunately, are less of a nuisance.
- After the last ferry has gone the islands are completely cut off and although there is a small medical centre there is no hospital, If there are potentially serious health issues in the family then island living would not be advisable. There is an ambulance service to get people off the island by water and in extreme cases by helicopter. During the severe storms earlier this year the ferries couldn't operate and the islands were without power for several days - something to consider/plan for even if there are no health issues. Unlike the mainland, you can't just get in the car and drive to where ever you fancy - everything done off the island requires money, a degree of planning and good time management. A night out on the mainland can have its problems if the last ferry is missed - where to spend the night.
- Mobile and Internet reception in some areas are very poor even with Telstra. Coverage maps on the Internet should not be relied upon so if you're likely to be highly dependent on these communications, do a physical check of each area you're interested in before committing to rent or buy. Between 4pm and 8pm demand is high and reception often at it's worst.

IN SUMMARY
Good luck - Macleay really is a wonderful place .... but only for some of us....

Great for

  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Very conducive to maintaining a level of fitness
  • Cool breezes and lots of trees
  • Water is within walking distance of everywhere
  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers

Not great for

  • Isolated at night when ferry services stop
  • Housing savings often lost after ferry fares and 2nd car costs
  • Mobile reception very poor in some areas
  • No bus service

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Hipsters
  • Country Lovers
9
TracyWilton
TracyWilton

Yes I totally agree with you. My partner and I work full time. And we come over during the holidays..As we own a house on the island which we rent out. To wonderful tenant. Also in the process of building our dream home on waterfront. I'm hoping in the next 5 yrs to move over there free hold. And just commute back forward to work. Hopefully by then they storted out the car parking on the mainland. Would be nice to have a bridge..but ruin the lifestyle..One thing I love about the place..even one seens to help each other out. See you on the island soon,.

AB BA
AB BA

helpful tips, thanks!

Chris 3105
Chris 3105

were planning on possibly moving to the island so this has helps alot

maidm

The other islands can be accessed without charge. The only Pilates on the SMBI is on Russell, 3 minutes' walk from the RI jetty: PilatesYogaFusion 6 classes 3 days a week, 0412 22 55 88. Excellent for all ages genders expertise

freeshia
freeshia

Well I can say..it's change now. Overcrowding..carparks nightmare. infrastructure needs to keep up . Supply and demand.

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"Paradise close to Brisbane"

Love it here - have my 690m2 place close to ferry, shops and golf course; vegetable garden, fruit trees, fishing, will buy a boat soon ...am self employed and can work via internet / laptop;

perfect place for ev. 30-99 who searches for piece and (still) affordable property - way to cheap - takes me 20 minutes to redland bay with ferry or 70 min to brisbane with bus / ferry .... new bycicle track and kids park is coming, 3 shopping centers, most hoons left island a few years ago ....still waiting for the mystical "bridge" otherwise my perfect island paradise - also close to byron and gold coast; Prices will go up sooner or later as its a mirracle that esp macleay - the most developed island - hasnt been discovered ....

NOT for people who cant survive without car or not flexible in regards to ferry / used to city lifestyle

Great for

  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Sun, sea, sand. Life is a beach!

Not great for

  • Don't come if you want a mainland lifestyle. It's different.
  • Isolated at night when ferry services stop
  • Parking problems at ferry terminals

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • Country Lovers
  • Beach Lovers
4
lovejoy

FANTASTIC FOR MUSO'S AND ARTISTS :)

kitkatz

Hi, great review. Just wondering do you have any problems with your internet connection where you are?

david-finnd

Hi my hubby and I are looking to buy on Macleay we have a big boat that draws 2mts we wanted to buy near or on the water what area has deep water at low tide Thanks s

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"10 minutes from the busy noisy mainland. A world away from problems"

This fast developing island presents the very best of living standards. A quiet, peaceful evironment. Wonderful wild life, including many birds that are human-friendly. Must be the perfect place for raising a family. An excellent seaside life style. Shopping mini markets, doctors, police, Queensland ambulance, SES, schools, many varieties of businesses including a bank.

Great for

  • Sun, sea, sand. Life is a beach!
  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Very conducive to maintaining a level of fitness

Not great for

  • Don't come if you want a mainland lifestyle. It's different.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
4
lovejoy

Cool sea breezes in summer too!!! Not like western Brisbane.

evpo
evpo

I agree with your comment. Away from the crazy noisy mainland, pure paradise!

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"Fantastic for boaties, yachties and other recreational water-lovers!!!"

Macleay Island is so close to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, yet a world of it's own. The low cost of housing offsets the travel costs. One can literally get to Brisbane CBD from their doorstep in 90 mins if they have a car on the mainland and a scooter or second car on the island (one can get reduced 'Island' rego).
Most homes on Macleay are high and dry to my knowledge so one doesn't need flood insurance! The Southern Moreton Bay Islands are built for rain to runoff.

We have a Spar, Foodworks, Butcher, Bakery, Childcare centre, Primary School, Boat/Sailing Club, Bowls and Golf Club, Pub with TAB, Restaurant, Takeaway with great fresh seafood, Pizza Shop, Arts Centre, Taxi, Video shop, Hairdresser, GP's, Dentist, Computer shops, Bank, Post Office, Vet, Pet Shop, Ambulance/Helipad, Police station, Fire station, Karma Carpentry,Tai Chi/yoga/pilates, Community Centre with many consultants/services etc, etc!!! Best of all, we have a wonderful community spirit here and warmly welcome newcomers :)
The passenger ferry departs approximately every half hour from 4.33 am - 11.10pm M-F. A bit less on weekends. The vehicle barge departs quite frequently. ENJOY YOUR VISIT!!! ;)

Great for

  • Fantastic for boating, sailing, fishing, kyaking and jetski
  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Peaceful, community spirit

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
  • Tourists
  • LGBT+
  • Hipsters
  • Students
  • Country Lovers
  • Trendy & Stylish
  • Beach Lovers
7
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"A great retreat close to Brisbane"

A residential island in South Moreton Bay, Macleay Island is host to a wide cross section of people enjoying relative solitude in a sub-tropical climate not far from the mainland. The ferry ride is about 17 minutes and the car barge about 40 minutes, both depart from Redland Bay. Commuting is fairly expensive for the average person, however this is offset somewhat by the lower cost of housing on the island. Basic services are available on the island including doctors, groceries, takeaway food, bakery, police and ambulance. There are also licensed venues including the Pub, Bowls and Golf clubs. The Bowls Club boasts one of the best water views from any club in Australia. There are also some lovely parks and swimming spots which are great at high tide.

Great for

  • Peaceful, community spirit
  • Low crime rate, cost of housing
  • Lots of bird life, great for nature lovers

Not great for

  • Isolated at night when ferry services stop
  • Cost of commuting, many unsealed roads
  • Parking problems at ferry terminals

Who lives here?

  • Singles
  • Retirees
  • Country Lovers
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"See reviews for Macleay Island - they're one and the same!"

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"Macleay Island - The Jewel in the Bay"

Macleay Island is in the Moreton Bay Marine Park only 30 kms from Brisbane This island is 6.5km by 4kms and is the second largest in the group of islands in the bay. The island offers safe swimming and snorkeling. There are some great fishing spots with good catches to be had. Macleay Island boasts an Arts Complex with studio, gallery and potters shed. There is a golf course with fully equipped club or you can play bowls. Accommodation is by way of a B & B or several holiday cottages and units. Macleay Island has some really affordable property both for sale and rent. This could be a first home buyers paradise for those happy to commute by ferry.

Who lives here?

  • Professionals
  • Singles
  • Families with kids
  • Retirees
3
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