Queensland location profile

Russell Island QLD 4184

Russell Island is the largest of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, offering an affordable, laid-back island lifestyle amid mangroves, wetlands, and waterfront vistas. It appeals to downsizers, first-home buyers, and sea-change seekers who value a quiet community with easy ferry access to the mainland.

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Why families consider Russell Island

Mixture of retirees, tradespeople, and young families drawn by lower housing costs and a relaxed coastal feel. Daily life revolves around boating, fishing, and community activities, with most higher-order services accessed on the Redland Bay/Victoria Point mainland.

Amenities & services

IGA supermarket and local shops
Cafes and takeaways
GP clinic and pharmacy
Dental services
Post office and basic banking agencies
Community centre and op shops
Redland City Libraries Mobile Library – Russell Island stops (e.g., near the shopping village/jetty precinct)

Transport & connectivity

Passenger ferries and vehicle barge to Redland Bay (BITS/Stradbroke Ferries)
Local island bus services (TransLink) connecting to the jetty
Centre Rd and Canaipa Point Dr on-island; connections via Cleveland–Redland Bay Rd and Mount Cotton Rd on the mainland

Lifestyle & recreation

Bay Islands Golf Club (9-hole)
Boat ramps, fishing and kayaking
Playgrounds and foreshore parks
Sports fields and courts
Community events and markets
Walking tracks and birdwatching
Bay Islands Conservation Park (Russell Island)
Russell Island Foreshore Reserves
Jackson Oval

Education context

Limited on-island options (family day care/small centres); broader childcare available in Redland Bay and Victoria Point via ferry.

Griffith University – Nathan & Logan campuses (via ferry to Redland Bay, then bus/car)
University of Queensland – St Lucia campus (via ferry then bus)
QUT – Gardens Point & Kelvin Grove campuses (via ferry then bus/train)