Visit Russell- Macleay And Nearby Islands
Be rewarded with beautiful views across Moreton Bay
Enjoy a healthy Redlands Coast lifestyle, offering great island services
Russell and Macleay Island are the larger of the nearby islands in the Redlands Coast area. Both have facilities and regular ferry services to support the residents that happily live here. You can enjoy a healthy lifestyle, with mainland style services, a local shops and a swimming pool. Living within the Southern Moreton Bay Marine Park allows access to abundant fishing, crabbing and birdlife.
Just nearby are Lamb Island and Karragarra Island, noted for being less “frantic” and offering that quieter secluded lifestyle option. Redlands Coast Lifestyle has done the research for you – checkout more about the islands below.
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 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
How far from Russell & Macleay Islands to mainland?
Regular affordable ferry transport from Redlands Coast
You can easily get to the Islands from the mainland by way of a 25-minute trip on the Sealink passenger ferry from Redland Bay. If you prefer to take your car, then there is a daily Vehicle Ferry Service which you’re advised to book to avoid disappointment. Sealink also run regular inter island ferry services with all fares payable with a Go Card or you can buy paper tickets.
Why Choose To Visit or Live On Russell Island
Beautiful views across Moreton Bay and North Stradbroke
The largest island in the group, Russell boasts plentiful wildlife, many conservation areas, wetlands and walking tracks. A bowls club, RSL and many small eateries can also be found within walking distance of the ferry terminal. With a primary school, sporting field, swimming pool and day care supporting younger families, every age group is covered with a range of other sports such as yoga, pilates, gym and swimming events.
Russell Island History
Originally called Canaipa, meaning "place of ironbark spear"
As with the other bay islands, Russell Island supplied food, shelter and resources for thousands of years to the indigenous settlers at first, then for the pioneering families and the mainland markets. Originally called Canaipa, meaning place of ironbark spear, it was renamed in the 1840s after Lord John Russell, the British Secretary of State for the colonies at the time. The island had its first non-indigenous residents by the 1850s that were mainly oystermen, limeburners or timber-getters. The Moreton Bay Oyster Company had leases on the island around 1859, with John ‘Tinker’ Campbell soon after settling and building his saltworks.
The first European settlers came in 1866 when John Campbell was granted a lease on the northern end of the island, closely followed by oyster and fisherman as the full time inhabitants until the arrival of the Jackson family who created a small village on the western side called Jacksonville. A pineapple and canning factory quickly followed by a sawmill, the island set high standards with a picture theatre and a small school to follow by 1916.
Farming followed, with many pioneers such as the Jackson, Willes, Branch, Fischer and Schultz families settling on the island and producing timber, fruit, vegetables and sugar cane for the mainland markets for almost 100 years.
Sawmills were established around the island making good use of the plentiful island timber, with the cut logs taken to the mainland using the old timber rafting grounds which were near the current water taxi terminal. In the 1970s many of the farms were subdivided into smaller blocks.
Russell Island Ferry Terminals
FAQs about Russell Island
How big is Russell Island?
Russell Island is the largest of the four islands being 8kms long and 3kms wide and is currently home to around 3700 permanent residents.
Are there shops and services on the island?
The Russell Island village boasts of every convenience you will find on the mainland. Many electricians, builders and plumbers are residents on the island making it all but self supportive. Police, Ambulance 24/7, Rural Fire Brigade, Medical services, Pharmacies, Vet, Churches and Hairdressers are at your service. The IGA supermarket is open every day with a additional convenient delivery by Woolworths online. The local bakery is independently operating, a well-stocked bottle shop is central as are café’s, restaurants and kebab outlet
How many people live on Russell island?
Russell Island has a permanent population of approximately 3,698 people. This number is based on the 2021 census for the locality of Russell Island. The numbers of people changes dramatically during holidays and weekend stays.
Things to do on Russell island?
With a primary school, sporting field, swimming pool and day care supporting younger families, every age group is covered with a range of other sports such as yoga, pilates, gym and swimming events. For the more reserved, a bridge club, mosaic and art groups hold regular meetings. Bush walking on an island filled with bird life draws the outdoor recreationalist, along with sailing and popular kayaking in the sheltered waters. Russell Island is also one of just 125 world-recognised bird sanctuaries, making it a must-do for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts.
Is there accommodation on the island?
Holiday accommodation is available through Airbnb and Stayz. These vary from 1 bedroom to 4 bedroom houses so there is something to suit all visitors. There is also a small, Council-run campground at Lions Boulevard Park, however facilities are limited and the site is suitable for tent camping only.
How to get around Russell Island?
On the island, local bus services offer a reliable means to explore. The buses run a fixed schedule, making stops at key points across the island. Very helpful for those without personal vehicles. Bicycle rentals are available on the island for those looking for an eco-friendly way to travel., with several rental shops where you can hire bikes. Private and community transport options make getting around Russell easier too. Options include: Taxis and Ride-sharing Services | Car Hire Companies | Community Carpooling Initiatives
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.
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.
Why Choose To Visit or Live On Macleay Island
The boutique island within Southern Moreton Bay Islands
This local haven is the second largest of the islands within the Southern Moreton Bay Islands group. Macleay is considered as the most boutique of them all. With a vibrant artist community, Macleay has many places to explore and experience both food and artistic delights of all kinds.
As you step ashore, the islands friendly village atmosphere welcomes you. Residents of Macleay have mainland conveniences with a local community vibe. Ease of frequent transport back to Redland Bay Marina via Sealink ferries makes living here a popular and easy choice. Island Real Estate is still considered affordable, with vacant lant also readily available.
Macleay Island History
Originally known by its Aboriginal name, Jencomercha meaning ‘a meeting place of spiritual importance’
Macleay was renamed in 1839 after the Colonial Secretary for NSW and naturalist Alexander Macleay. However, before this point it was also known as – including appearing on early maps – Tim Shea’s Island. Perulpa Island – Perulpa being an Aboriginal word meaning an island off an island – is connected to Macleay by a causeway. The Campbell family – also known on Russell Island – were the first permanent settlers on Macleay which quickly either leased or owned almost the whole island.
After arriving in the area in 1840, John ‘Tinker’ Campbell engaged in many business ventures in and around the islands. They established a sugar plantation on Macleay, hiring South Sea Island labourers, which were also known as ‘Kanakas’. During the early settlement of Brisbane salt was in short supply and the Government had imposed a hefty tax on imported salt supplies. A number of saltworks were established on the islands in the 1860s, including at Pininpinin Point, by Campbell.
Tinker and his sons Robert, Frederick and John Edwin, tried their hand at a number of industries. Timber-getters, oystermen, fishermen and dugong hunters to name a few. Their Kanaka labourers built several structures for the Campbells, some of which still have remnants standing today. The Campbells sold some of their holdings on Macleay Island in 1871, moving to Stradbroke Island. Farms on the islands flourished growing many fruit crops.
Macleay Island Barge and Ferry Point
FAQs about Macleay Island
How big is Macleay Island?
This haven is the second largest of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands and is 6.5kms in length and 4kms in width at its widest point
Are there shops and services on the island?
The island boasts of its abundance of shopping facilities and essential services. Groceries can be bought at the Spar Supermarket on Southsea Terrace and Five Star Supermarket on High Central Road. There are also boutique shops, a chemist and five-star cafes. Entertainment and leisure can be found at the vibrant Club Macleay Bowls Club, the Golf Club, and the Arts Centre.
Medical needs are looked after by Doctors, Dentist, Pathology, and a Chemist Pharmacy. Emergency Services are available with Police, Ambulance, and Fire Brigade. For Education there is a Primary School and an Early Childhood Centre.
How many people live on Macleay island?
Currently the island has a permanent population of around 4,000 people
Things to do on Macleay island?
There is a well patronised bowling club with an award-winning dining room featuring a million-dollar view across the bay. It is also famous for its social events and hosts regular entertainment by many well-known musical artists. Sail your heart away in the bay waters surrounding this little paradise. If fishing and crabbing is your scene then you are well catered for with the abundance of seafood at your doorstep in these crystal calm waters. Tingira Boat Club warmly welcomes the keen angler, sailor and boating enthusiasts whether you own a craft or not. There are 3 convenient boat ramps located around the Island.
Is there accommodation on the island?
There is accommodation available to suit all visitors to the island, from those who like a bit of luxury to those who want the more rustic stay. You will find something to suit your needs on one of these sites: Airbnb, Stayz, or Macleay Island Accommodation
How to get around Macleay Island?
Whilst there are school bus services there is not a public bus service. An Island taxi service is very popular, as are residents with cars. Keep in mind the island is 24 square kilometres so there can be some distance to travel. Cycling and walking are also popular means of transport.
Why Choose To Visit or Live On Lamb Island
Small island with a welcoming and unique charm.
Nestled beside Macleay lies the unassuming Lamb Island. A peaceful place with unspoilt shores and community lifestyle, Lamb has a rich history and many places of interest.
Lamb is virtually traffic free, and a very peaceful place to live. If you’re into boating and fishing, or enjoy solitude and the natural environment, this is the place for you. It is separated from the much larger Macleay Island by narrow Lucas Passage.
Lamb Island History
The island was originally known by its Aboriginal name ‘Ngudooroo’ which means place of many paperbacks.
Thomas Lucas is one of the islands earliest residents, whose grave is on the hill above the jetty. Lucas was a released convict that originally settled on Macleay, working as an oysterman, until purchasing land on Lamb Island in 1887.
Applications for land on the island were made after a publication of the Coffee and Sugar Regulations in 1864, which opened up the islands for selection. First settled in 1866, one of the first European settlers was developer John Harris who purchased 263 acres of land in 1871, with subdivisions following in 1878 and further land acquisitions to follow. The island was once made up of numerous farms and due to its geographical location, extremely fertile volcanic soils, and pristine water the farmers were able to supply superior produce to the mainland markets. Oystermen also camped at Clarkes Point on the Eastern side of the island.
Lamb Island Ferry Terminal
FAQs about Lamb Island
How big is Lamb Island?
Second smallest of the Southern Moreton bay islands and is only 2kms in length and 1km wide. This makes it easy to walk to any amenities on the island.
Are there shops and services on the island?
A well-stocked general store and Kiosk serve the current island inhabitants well. Available essential services include town water, power, internet, rubbish collection and all council services.
How many people live on Lamb Island?
Current population is around 400 people
Things to do on Lamb Island?
The Recreational Club and swimming enclosure provide a great opportunity for family activities, along with social facilities. BBQs, a playground and toilets are located nearby. Fishing is a keen hobby, along with any other water based sport.
Is there accommodation on the island?
The nearby islands of Macleay, Karragarra and Russell all offer a range of accommodations.
How to get around Lamb Island?
Virtually vehicle free, you can walk or cycle around the island easily.
Redlands Coast Lifestyle can help you choose a new ISLAND home
We specialise in connecting prospective buyers with Island properties and their vendors. Let us help you make a great lifestyle choice for you and your family.
Redlands Coast Lifestyle can help you choose a new ISLAND home
Properties for sale or rent in the Redlands Coast
You can still your own island property for very reasonable prices. Redlands Coast Lifestyle are property specialists – contact us or check out our listings.
Why Choose To Visit or Live On Karragarra Island
Known by island locals as Karra
The smallest of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, Karragarra is a delight to visit. Easily walkable, be sure to pack a lunch and watch the ferries go by at the waterfront picnic, BBQ and & swimming enclosure.
While it is far from the main crowd; it is still close to Brisbane and major shopping centres. The island enjoys a very active community and hosts many community events at its famous sandy beach. Nestled in the middle of the Southern Moreton Bay group of islands it enjoys the protected waters of the Marine National Park. Its family safe beaches and swimming enclosure attracts many a picnic basket and day trippers.
Karragarra Island History
Still called by its original Aboriginal name, meaning ‘long smooth wood’
Karra has been known in the past as Rabbit Island, as Chinese workers had bred rabbits there to sell to the oystermen. (This is noted in a late oyster lease map from the 1970’s.) In 1859 the Moreton Bay Oyster Company had built an 8 acre depot for their oyster leases on the western side of the island. In 1889 the northern shore of the island was divided into allotments of between 4-12 acres each, classed as town lots. Across from the Lamb Island jetty lies the remnants of the original Noyes homestead, built in 1900 for Dick Scott and his wife Edith Willes from Russell Island.
By 1908 most of the high strip was owned by the Noyes brothers, Eric and Thomas, while the Moreton Bay Oyster Company still held the western shore. The Noyes brothers bought the remainder of the island in 1916. After their brother Fred joined them, Eric then bought more land on Lamb Island.
In the 1930’s Hayles Cruises used to bring their boats Mirimar and Mirabelle to Karragarra for lunch during their cruises from Brisbane to Dunwich and back.
The Bannister farm had a stall so cruise passengers could disembark and sample fruit salad from the island farms. Pineapples, strawberries, passionfruit, chokos and poultry were the main items produced. There were four farms on Karragarra in 1950 however the island is now mainly residential.
Karragarra Beach Swimming Enclosure
FAQs about Karragarra Island
How big is Karragarra Island?
Smallest of the Southern Moreton bay islands group, this island paradise is just 0.5km by 1.5km long
Are there shops and services on the island?
It is the only one of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands without any shops, which contributes to its “getaway from it all” atmosphere.
How many people live on Karragarra island?
The island is home to around 200 residents.
Things to do on Karragarra Island?
Karragarra is populated by friendly long-term residents who partake and enjoy boating, fishing, crabbing and kayaking and share a healthy social neighbourly existence. Karragarra has it’s very own super active and well established community gardens, an active Yacht club and a Resident and Rates paying association supported by the local community. Most nights you will see the lucky locals enjoying a sundowner down on the beach watching the sun set, whilst cooking their dinner on the BBQ’s. With free Inter-Island Ferry transport, everything that the other islands have to offer are within easy reach.
Is there accommodation on the island?
Short term or holiday accommodation can be found on Karra – accommodation supplier Airbnb has listings
How to get around Karragarra Island?
A few of the locals have a car to get around. You can bring your bike on the ferry, or walk around easily at this island.
A place for families to connect and enjoy!
Connect With Redlands Coast Lifestyle
Subscribe to our newsletter or contact us
Have a question, need more info, or want to suggest a local business? We’re here to help you make the most of living, working, or visiting the Redlands Coast. At Redlands Coast Lifestyle we publish a quarterly newsletter, full of local news, community events and helpful tips on visiting the region.
