SOUTHERN MORETON BAY ISLANDS
What's it like living on the islands?
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Islands Off Redlands Coast offering a unique blend of lifestyle, affordability, and natural beauty
Whether you’re looking for a weekend escape, a fresh start, or a new way of life, these Bay Islands off the Redlands Coast invite you to slow down and reconnect.
The largest island in the group, Russell boasts plentiful wildlife, many conservation areas, wetlands and walking tracks.
The second largest of the islands within the SMBI, Macleay is considered as the most boutique of them all.
Nestled beside Macleay lies the unassuming Lamb Island. A peaceful place with unspoiled shores and community lifestyle.
The smallest of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, Karragarra is a delight to visit and easily walkable.
The promise of an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Plan a visit and find out more.
What Makes Southern Moreton Bay Islands Unique
Five Islands: each with Its own charm
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands, are commonly known as SMBI. This group of islands, just off the Redlands Coast, is made up of 5 consist main islands: Russell Island, Macleay Island, Lamb Island, Karragarra Island and Coochiemudlo Island. Each of these islands has its own unique charm and almost an island personality. It means that buyers looking for a Queensland island lifestyle can achieve their dream affordably and within reach of metropolitan Brisbane.
Redlands Coast Lifestyle has put together specific information about each island. This is to help you know more about the Redlands Coast Island group and make it easier to choose which island is best to live on.
Island life is a different pace of life
Each of the islands is reachable via regular ferry services. Four of the islands are serviced with Translink Ferries from Redland Bay Marina, whilst Coochiemudlo is serviced by Amity trader from Victoria Point. Russell Island, the biggest and most populated, features more amenities and essential services. Macleay Island, the boutique island, provides a good balance of residential and natural areas. Overall the result peaceful environment. If you desire peace or tranquility, then Lamb Island is a perfect choice. Karragarra Island is the smallest and most exclusive island of the group, and is celebrated for its close-knit community.
Affordable waterfront living
We have all witnessed the value of Real Estate growing year on year recently. Whilst this is also true for the SMBI, properties are still available at affordable and investable prices. Since the development of the islands in the 1970’s, steps have been taken by the Redland City Council to restrict excessive or over development of the areas. The larger islands of Russell and Macleay provide all the required essential services and retail presence to ensure you have an enjoyable and connected lifestyle for yourself and your family.
REDLANDS COAST LIFESTYLE PROPERTIES >
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It’s our aim at Redlands Coast Lifestyle, to bring you all the information you need – to make a choice about living here, or just planning a visit to the Redlands Coast area.
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Stay Connected With Life On The Redlands Coast
Insider tips, community stories, and updates in our Blog
It’s our aim at Redlands Coast Lifestyle, to bring you all the information you need – to make a choice about living here, or just planning a visit to the Redlands Coast area.
READ OUR LATEST ARTICLES >
Island Communities and Everyday Life
Who lives on Southern Moreton Bay Islands?
The island community is varied and represents a diverse demographic. Yu only need to sit and watch the Translink ferry arrive at Redland Bay Marina to witness the range of residents who call the islands home. Tradies, professionals, retirees, young families can all be seen disembarking to either catch scheduled mainland school buses or collecting their cars from the long term marina parking area.
Shops, cafes, and daily services
Visitors to the islands are generally surprised at the amount of shops, cafes and services on offer. Ranging from Bowls Clubs, Pubs, a RSL, Golf Club, Pharmacies and 24/7 Ambulance Ferry (just to name a few) there is plenty on offer to meet a weekend stay, day trip or full time resident’s needs.
A strong sense of connection
When you live in an island community, it generates a unique sense of connection. The more relaxed pace of life on the islands tends to reduce the common stresses of modern life. Life seems easier to enjoy and share together. It helps you appreciate that the little things in life are as important as the big things.
SMBI Community Information is a helpful community website that is designed and operated by Hilton Travis to provide information on community services for the benefit of all residents and visitors to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
An Island Lifestyle In Your Backyard
Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland
Schools | Early Education Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Local schools and education options
The larger islands in the SMBI group offer a range of educational choices, along with Early Learning and Childcare centres. If you’re looking for a quality primary school or a childcare centre that offers an inclusive and caring environment, there are a number of options available.
Russell Island State School: This primary school caters to children from Prep to Year 6. Staff here focus on student’s personal development and enriched academic learning.
Macleay Island State School: primary school serving children in the local community. This school focuses on promoting literacy, numeracy and social skills.
Currently, there are no Secondary Schools on the islands. It is common for students to attend High Schools within the Redlands Coast area by travelling to the mainland. Regular bus services connect with the island ferries, transporting students to the high schools.
Healthcare and emergency support
As island population number grow, so do the available health and emergency services that are required to be available. The nearest public hospital is the Redlands Hospital, located in the bayside suburb of Cleveland. However, the island community is well serviced with Medical and Emergency Services. Bay Islands Medical Services has clinics located on both Russell and Macleay. They are a family friendly bulk billing clinic, offering a range of general medical services to individuals, seniors, elderly people & families. Specific health services are also available for Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander people.
Since 2023, SeaLink has operated a custom designed and locally built vessel to support QAS transporting patients between the South Moreton Bay Islands and the mainland. The 12 meter vessel has the capacity to carry patients on stretchers, along with seated passengers and ambulance officers. As a result, QAS is now able to offer the Islands community first class pre-hospital care.
Council and community resources
Southern Moreton Bay Island residents and visitors are well supported by various community support services and local organisations. Detailed services information can be found on each of our Island pages for Russell, Macleay and nearby islands, plus for Coochiemudlo Island.
REDLANDS CITY COUNCIL INFO >
Macleay island Bowls Club
Transport and Access: Getting On and Off the Islands
SMBI Ferry and barge operators
Getting to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands is straightforward and scenic, with regular ferry and barge services connecting Redland Bay to the Islands. Passenger ferries depart approximately every half hour from Redland Bay Marina, located on Banana Street. Operated by SeaLink Bay Islands, these eco-friendly jet boats serve Macleay, Karragarra, and Russell Islands, with tickets available via TransLink Go card or onboard purchase.
For those needing to transport vehicles, the SeaLink vehicle ferry service operates from the marina at 1 Weinam Street, Redland Bay. This service is ideal for residents, tradespeople, and visitors bringing cars or larger loads to the islands.
Getting around on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Once you’re on the islands, travel is relaxed and low-key. All Islands have sealed roads and are accessible by car, with vehicle barges available inter-island and from the mainland through SeaLink. Pushbikes can be taken on the passenger ferries, which makes visiting and looking around yourself quite simply. Most locals and visitors get around by car, bike, or on foot, as distances are short and traffic is minimal. Lamb and Karragarra Islands are smaller and pedestrian-friendly, making walking or cycling the best ways to explore.
Taxi services also operate on Macleay and Russell Islands, connecting ferry terminals with key spots around the islands. Whether you’re touring at your own pace or just getting from A to B, the islands offer a peaceful and easy-going travel experience. The Island recreation & bowls clubs, RSL and golf club also have courtesy buses for those looking for transport to and from their home, holiday home or ferry terminal.
Planning your travel and island lifestyle
Getting to the Southern Moreton Bay Islands is straightforward and part of the adventure. Passenger ferries and water taxis run regularly from Redland Bay to Macleay, Russell, Lamb, and Karragarra Islands. The scenic trip takes just 15–30 minutes, depending on your destination. Vehicle barges are also available if you’d like to bring your car, especially useful for longer stays. Accommodation options range from holiday rentals and B&Bs to eco-friendly stays, with local cafes, shops, and scenic spots easy to reach once you’re there. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a peaceful island getaway, a little planning goes a long way in making the most of your visit.
Life on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands is all about slowing down and soaking up the natural beauty. Each island has its own character, but they all share a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. With minimal traffic, coastal walking trails, quiet beaches, and a strong sense of community, it’s easy to feel at home. Many locals enjoy gardening, fishing, boating, or simply relaxing outdoors. The islands are also well-connected, with local markets, community events, and essential services close by. Whether you’re escaping for a weekend or considering a sea change, the islands offer a lifestyle that’s relaxed, grounded, and deeply connected to nature.
Things to Do and Why People Stay
Fishing, kayaking, and boating around the islands
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands in Queensland offer some of the best fishing, kayaking, and boating opportunities in the region. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy calm, sheltered waterways perfect for exploring by kayak, with mangrove-lined channels, marine wildlife, and scenic coastal views.
Fishing is popular from island jetties, beaches, or boats, with local waters teeming with bream, flathead, whiting, and more. Boaters will find convenient access to public boat ramps, ideal for island-hopping, crabbing, or discovering quiet coves throughout the Moreton Bay Marine Park. Whether you’re visiting Macleay, Russell, Lamb, Karragarra Island or Coochiemudlo, these coastal activities are a highlight of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands lifestyle.
CHECK OUT SOME LOCAL FISHING INFO >
Nature walks and quiet beaches
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands are a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering tranquil walking trails and uncrowded beaches perfect for a relaxing coastal escape. Each island features scenic bushwalks through native forests, mangroves, and coastal wetlands, where visitors can spot a wide variety of birdlife and wildlife. Popular walking tracks include the Russell Island Wetlands Walk and Macleay Island Coastal Trail, both ideal for a peaceful stroll or birdwatching adventure.
The beaches on the islands are calm and family-friendly—perfect for swimming, picnicking, or enjoying the views of Moreton Bay. While these are not surf beaches, their gentle waters and quiet settings make them ideal for safe, laid-back beach days. Whether you’re looking for easy nature walks or secluded beach spots in South East Queensland, the Southern Moreton Bay Islands offer an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and island charm.
Why some people come for a visit: and never leave
The Southern Moreton Bay Islands, including the picturesque Coochiemudlo Island, draw visitors looking for a peaceful retreat just a short ferry ride from Brisbane and the Redlands Coast. People come for the stunning natural beauty, calm beaches, and abundant outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, bushwalking, and birdwatching. Each island has its own unique charm—from the vibrant arts scene and cafes on Coochiemudlo, to the lush walking trails and wildlife sanctuaries on Macleay and Russell Islands. Most daily amenities such as grocery stores, medical services, schools, and community events are conveniently available on the islands, making everyday living comfortable and hassle-free. Visitors quickly fall in love with the relaxed pace, strong community spirit, and easy access to nature, often choosing to make the Southern Moreton Bay Islands their forever home. With the perfect balance of island tranquility and essential conveniences, it’s easy to see why so many people visit once—and never want to leave.
FAQs about Southern Moreton Bay Islands
Can you live on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands full-time?
Most definitely is the answer! Several thousand people have already made that choice to relocate themselves to these island. Read our sections on individual islands for more info
Which island is best for families or retirees?
This really comes down to personal choice. If you are looking for more activities to connect with like minded people then Russell and Macleay offer this solution. For a more tranquil existence, Coochie, Lamb and Karragarra offer their own unique communities.
How long does it take to get to the mainland?
The island ferry system is very regular and reliable. Depending on which island you depart from, it can be 10-25 mins and you are back at Victoria Point or Redland Bay Marina.
What services are available on the islands?
Services do range dependent on your island of choice. However, schools, medical services, shops, cafes, restaurants, fuel, and groceries are all available either on the island or a nearby island.
Are properties affordable on the SMBI?
Yes the islands are still considered affordable and a value investment or purchase to become your home. Agreed prices have increased in line with most real estate in QLD but an island property can still be bought (land or house) for very reasonable prices. Redlands Coast Lifestyle are property specialists, so please check out our listings.
Can you buy food and supplies on the islands?
There plenty of options to supply yourself on the islands. From groceries sold within Curlew Cafe at Coochiemudlo, right through to the Spar Supermarket at Macleay island. Check out the island pages for more info.
A place for families to connect and enjoy!
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