Welcome to the idyllic lifestyle of Russell Island
Nestled between North Stradbroke Island and Redland Bay within the pristine waters of Moreton Bay, Russell Island is a large stretch of land 8km long and nearly 3km wide, and truly one of Southeast Queensland’s best-kept secrets. Located only 20 minutes by passenger ferry from Redland Bay, you can enjoy the laid back lifestyle the island offers, while still being close to major facilities, with two international airports within 60 minutes from the Redland Bay Ferry Terminal. Large shopping precincts are also close by, with an excellent public transport system servicing the location.
Russell Island has all that you could be wanting from a seachange, with boating, fishing, golf, and bowls all on your doorstep. Enjoy beautiful water aspects with views south to the Gold Coast, north to Dunwich, and west towards Redland Bay, or have a bush retreat on one of the many blocks tucked away beside conservation areas.
Russell Island is a growing but relaxed community that often changes as visitors flock to it on weekends and holidays. The village boasts of every convenience you will find on the mainland. Many electricians, builders and plumbers are residents on the island, making it self-supportive.
Bushwalking on an island filled with bird life draws the outdoor recreationalist, along with sailing and popular kayaking in the sheltered waters. When you are exploring Russell Island, there are things to see in the Whistling Kite Wetlands, Turtle Swamp, and the only grave on the islands.
Russell Island is part of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI) group, or fondly called the Bay Islands. The other islands are Lamb, Macleay, and Karragarra. Some people say that going to these islands is like going back in time, back to how Australia used to be – a slower pace, no traffic lights, no rush. What they don’t tell you, is that this slower pace awakens that quiet place that calls you into being more present, more open to simple pleasures.
Unassuming yet naturally beautiful, the islands have a peaceful charm. As you walk down the quiet streets and listen to the many birds that call this island home, you discover stunning vistas and quiet beaches. Even the birds are friendly here.
The waters around the Bay Islands are fascinating in their own way. Great spots for boating families are Rocky Point, the BBQ facilities at Jock Kennedy Park, Sandy Beach, Karragarra Foreshore, Pats Park Macleay Island, and the list goes on.
Fishing in the area is great with pristine conditions. Fish stocks are abundant as the green zones and mangroves help keep the area alive with various fish. It is common all year to land flathead and bream while you wait for good size mud crabs. In the winter months, you can target snapper and jewfish. At the right time of the year, the prawns come out to the waters.
The Bay Islands are easily travelled to by public ferry. For a family looking for a seaside village life full of handicraft and homemade delicacies, these islands are the obvious choice. It is an easy get-away lifestyle from the noise, and hustle and bustle of city life to simply be in nature with all the mod-cons but without breaking your budget.
There is a vast array of properties available – from cottages with character to modern homes with water views. With some properties including water access, private jetties, or boat moorings, you can be on the bay in minutes. Boat ramps are also easily accessible.
Most of the Bay Islands have generous public spaces, unspoiled natural environments, and really wonderful local people, which makes the area a great residential investment. And most importantly, the best place to end each day is moored on the western side of the islands to watch the fascinating sunsets.
Every day is a boater’s paradise with a property on Russell Island. www.russellislandrealestate.com.au
Editorial by Andy Kancachian
