Queensland location profile

Chelona QLD 4740

Chelona is a small, semi-rural locality in the Mackay Region known for sugarcane farms and acreage properties. It offers a quiet country lifestyle with easy access to Mackay’s jobs, services, and beaches. Families value the local primary school and the relaxed, community feel.

Explore schools in Chelona

Compare local schools using the BestSchools list and interactive map.

Compare schools

Why families consider Chelona

Predominantly farming families and tradespeople, with long-term locals and commuters working in Mackay and the Paget industrial area. Lifestyle is quiet and outdoorsy, centered on agriculture, fishing near Dunnrock, and space for hobby farming.

Amenities & services

Ooralea Shopping Centre (nearby in Ooralea)
Caneland Central (Mackay CBD)
Mackay Base Hospital (Paget)
Sarina Hospital (Sarina)
Local roadhouse/cafes along Bruce Highway
Wide range of restaurants and services in Mackay CBD and Paget
Dudley Denny City Library (Mackay CBD)
Sarina Library (Sarina)
Gordon White Library (Mount Pleasant, Mackay)

Transport & connectivity

Nearest train stations: Mackay (Paget) and Sarina (long-distance services)
School bus services (limited public bus coverage)
Major roads: Bruce Highway, Chelona–Sandiford Road, Homebush Road, Dunnrock Road

Lifestyle & recreation

Fishing and crabbing at Dunnrock and the Sandy Creek estuary
Mackay Ooralea Racecourse (nearby)
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and Bluewater Trail (nearby in Mackay)
Local sports, swimming, and events in Mackay and Sarina
Bakers Creek Conservation Park
Dunnrock Beach and Sandy Creek estuary
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens (nearby)

Education context

No centres in Chelona itself; access to long day care and family day care in Ooralea, Paget, South Mackay, and Sarina. Places can be competitive during peak periods; plan ahead for waitlists.

CQUniversity Mackay Ooralea Campus (Ooralea)
CQUniversity Mackay City Campus (Mackay CBD)
TAFE Queensland – Mackay (various campuses in Mackay region)