Why is Russell Island so cheap? And what snakes are on the island?

Wow I am really glad my answer was so helpful! A few things I forgot to add, the first ferry in the morning from Russell Island is 420am and the last ferry back from Redland Bay is 1120pm (1210pm on the weekends). There is a large IGA on the island but if you prefer to shop with Woolies you can get a Woolworths delivery that delivers to your door and is free if you buy over a certain amount. Commonwealth Bank lend on the islands, you just require a 20% deposit, I used a Gentleman named Steve Frawley at Loganholme, he was very helpful.

Finally! A string of like minded believers! I had actually stopped reading about Russell Island on this site because of the seemingly high volume of misinformed rubbish that was being posted. One could often tell from the spelling and grammatical errors, the calibre of authors. Heavens, if you believed half of it, you may well wonder how anyone survives more than ten minutes here. My family has lived here for five + years now and we really love it. I love my fishing and crabbing and am starting to get to know my way around pretty well now. Very few times I come back empty handed from a fishing foray. I am in a couple of sporting clubs which are really solid and like nothing better than a barbie with a few friends at Jock Kennedy park or Jackson oval as the sun sets. The only downside is that they force me to drink beer and despite fighting them off tenaciously, usually end up having one. I think once I even had two! Seriously though, they are really great spots for a bbq with excellent facilites, that are always clean, lovely views and always a cool breeze. No idea why more folks don't use them, must like washing dishes! FD

Yes this is a perfect response and it completely mirrors my experience! This place is amazing and thank you for your comments! I am self funding my retirement and own my home for the first time in my life! purchased a cottage for $195k!! Went and visited the Gold Coast Today, took me 40 minutes... I am so happy to call Russell Island Home

im wanting to buy on Russell island thinking buy a block and put a kit home on it. is it easy to have the property fenced and connected to water, sewerage and power. or would i be better off buying a home already there.

https://www.redland.qld.gov.au/info/20206/dwellings/453/building_a_house_on_southern_moreton_bay_islands "When building a new house on the Southern Moreton Bay Islands (SMBI), you need: building approval a site evaluation soil permeability test plumbing approval. In some circumstances, you may also require concurrence agency referral for your building application or a planning approval. Site evaluation and soil tests There is no reticulated sewerage network on the SMBI and each house must have its own on-site wastewater treatment and disposal system. Site evaluation and soil permeability tests evaluate your property for an on-site wastewater treatment and disposal system. Site evaluations determine site features that may affect the design and position of the disposal system. They are conducted by qualified plumbing professionals. Soil tests determine the soil type and the ability for treated wastewater to be disposed of on-site. The site evaluation and soil tests are used to inform the size and capacity of the disposal system, which determines the number of bedrooms that can be accommodated in the house. Soil tests are conducted by a suitably qualified soil tester. You can find a list of approved testers under Geotechnical Engineers and/or Consultants in the Yellow Pages or through an internet search. Building and plumbing approvals All new houses on the SMBI require building and plumbing approval. Building approval can be obtained from a private building certifier, while plumbing approval can only be obtained from Council. Concurrence Agency Referral Amenity and aesthetics In some instances you may also require an amenity and aesthetics referral approval. This approval is required if your proposed works include: removal dwelling - single class 1a building that has been removed from another site/property, transported and reconstructed onto a property on the SMBI dwelling house less than 60m2 - single detached class 1a buildings with less than 60m2 floor area (excluding garage/carport and verandas). Note: The amenity and aesthetics referral is not required if planning approval is required. If a planning approval is required for your proposal, the amenity and aesthetics matters will be included within the planning assessment process. Design and siting Refer to the Queensland Development Code (QDC) for further information on whether a design and siting approval is required. Planning approval Planning approval assesses the impact of the proposed house on surrounding areas and impacts from natural hazards such as flood and storm tide. To determine whether you need planning approval to build on your land, find out what zoning and overlays affect your property. You can find out the zoning and overlays that apply to your property with: PD Online - property enquiry tool Red-e-map - online mapping tool. More information Finding your propertys zone [PDF, 0.3MB] Finding what overlays apply to your property [PDF, 0.3MB]"

As a resident of Russell Island you are entitled to a Restricted Area Concession on your registration costs, if the vehicle is to be used almost exclusively on the islands. The exception here, is that you are allowed to drive the vehicle on the mainland for servicing and repair purposes only, unless you obtain a permit beforehand. The form you need to fill out for your Restricted Area Concession can be found here. If you have just purchased a car on the islands, and wish to register the car under your name, you are exempt from obtaining a Safety Certificate or Roadworthy Certificate due to the fact that there are no licensed/registered inspection stations on the islands. This does not mean you cant get your car inspected on the mainland if you wish, just that you dont have to. In the event that you do not wish to get a Safety Certificate, you need to do a Self Assessment of the vehicle. This basically says that you, to the best of your knowledge, think the car is safe to drive on the roads. Yes its cheaper vehicle registration for island cars with no need for RWC.

how can you get to the Gold Coast in 40 minutes,

I have a tinny with a 30 hp outboard and I can go from the boat ramp at Jock Kennedy park to the Gold Coast broadwater in less than 40 minutes. FD

Extremely interested all of my life to move 2 Australia, NZ...ETC!

https://redlandsmowing.com.au Mowing Russell Island

How much does it cost to take your car across on the ferry, would like to go and look at some blocks of land

@lucindaz I found the best way to see the island is to use the agents! It's much cheaper coming over on foot and letting them drive you around. Denise at Ljhooker has been a massive help for so many of my friends. Send her an email [email protected] and she will help you!

Russell Island is booming on the Brisbane Bayside. Checkout these amazing news items The Great Day Out http://bit.ly/RedlandCoastSouthernIslands https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1640870036016883&id=103832643053971 "Buy land for the price of a holiday: https://m.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/buy-land-for-the-price-of-a-holiday/3837053/ "Four islands in southern Moreton Bay set to receive ferry terminal upgrades in government deal" http://www.couriermail.com.au/questnews/redlands/news-story/3af6e77afdc58e84edc802b758803aff 7 News Brisbane https://facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2596083143737855&id=130736376939223 Brisbane Property Investor https://qldpropertyinvestor.com.au/queensland-to-rank-among-best-state-markets-in-2019/ "It is cheaper to buy than rent in this south east Queensland island paradise" https://www.realestate.com.au/news/it-is-cheaper-to-buy-than-rent-in-this-south-east-queensland-island-paradise/ Get Inspired at https://www.instagram.com/russellisland.qld/ And from last year "Best bargain suburbs for buyers in 2018" https://www.realestate.com.au/news/best-bargain-suburbs-for-buyers-2018/

NBN fibre optic cable currently being laid all over russell island as we speak. FTTN and FTTC super fast internet being installed by NBN contractors and Visionstream contractors. Did u ou also know that Russell island is currently having a SECOND mobile phone tower installed at 23 Moreton Outlook Dr, Russell Island ? Should be finished and operational in the next few months.

If you are looking to build, QLD Project Builders have a display home on Russell island worth checking out qldpb com next time you visit. They also have house and land packages

It helps if you provide a website address which works

Hi I am building a kit home on Russell island does anyone know what the wind classification please

Real estate told me its normal not high winds I going to put a kit home over there to

https://redlandscoastislands.com.au/islands-directory/russell-island Local island trade directory

We are thinking about buying a small block of land and putting a tiny house on it as a weekender. We intend to have our tiny house eco- friendly- i.e compost toilet, rain water tank and solar. Has anybody else done this, or does anyone have any tips?

Hi elle.saschaw, Having lived on another island, in my own home, over here for 6 years. My answer may help a little, if you are building a standed small cabin, anything basically as small as a garden shed, once you put a roof on it, it has to be approved by Redland City Council. If you are talking about a mobile tiny home and leaving on the block, once again you may/probably will need council approval to do so. If you plan to bring it back and forth off the island (expensive exercise) you may get away with it for a couple of weeks at a time. Unfortunately, we are pretty heavily regulated by the RCC and we have police on the island. They may turn a blind eye but probably not! Best to speak to someone with more knowledge than I, I answered as I see no one else has, thought I may help you a little. Good luck with your plans, the islands are 4 sparkling jewels out here in the southern Moreton Bay, best decision we have made moving out here. Love the wildlife, friendly people and mostly the quiet life, no keeping up with the Jones's over here, pretty much live and let live attitudes, as long as you are a respectful community member, all will be good

Im also looking at buying land on the island. Its great to hear from people who live there what its really like so thank you

It's now overcrowded and filling up with more crackhead's and bogans, it was a lot nicer 10 years ago before covid and everyone started looking for somewhere cheap and regional. The mozzies and midges will strip your skin off and there's rubbish all over the roadsides and cigeratte butts everywhere, the natural settings nice but that will be totally stuffed very quickly with the amount of people that just move here because they can't afford anywhere else! It was a nice place...

Sad to hear. Hope and pray that people will start to respect and take care of their surroundings and the island and Police will get involved to maintain same.

If D really thinks these islands are over crowded, then I suggest D has never lived in a town or city with a population exceeding a few hundred well spread out farmers. As for the rest, yeah , we do have some riff raff here. Mostly dressed in dark blue and drive around in police cars, so they are easy to avoid.

Time will tell . But l went over to Russell Island for a look as l had never heard of it ,and fell in love with the place . There is everything you need there. Shops , clubs , ambos , and the peasful tranquility is amazing . So l bought a lovely house on the bottom end of the island for an amazing price . Talk to others at the ferry terminal while you wait or on your journey stop at Aunty Alice's Cafe you can get lots of info that way . And l am looking forward to my move .

I just bought a block of land on Russel. I can't wait to build my home and move there. Hope to meet you some time.

How do you build a house there? By this I mean what are the additional costs? Do they have a specific boat for the trades to bring in materials and equipment?

Building on Russell is a little more expensive than the same house built on the mainland. In my experience of building several houses here it is only around 5 - 10% max.. Materials come over on normal trucks and semi trailers on the vehicle barges. There are a few transports that come regularly to collect day to day materials. Try and aggregate a large load to safe a few bucks. All trades are here and reasonably priced. Get personal rcommendations, there are a few wallies amongst the good ones. We also have a concrete plant which is a lot more expensive than mainland due to the freight on their raw materials. That said, it is good concrete and great service. One significant cost here that is not on the mainland is the sewerage system you need. Plan on something like $8000 installed cost for that.

iam hoping to find someone who will sell me a block vendors terms. there seems to be alot on the market

I Am On A disability pension How Much Does the ferry Cost

Is there anywhere to do CV k a boat?

lots of water, I don't know boats, but looked your type up on google/pictures, there are many inflatable boats being used around the islands here

Here is the new Sealink passenger Ferry pricing 2018 for adults $2.65 -$3.20 each way and for concession holders $1.30 -$1.65 each way. REFERENCE https://www.bayislandsinfo.com/a-note-about-fares/ Passenger Ferry Schedule here: REFERENCE https://jp.translink.com.au/plan-your-journey/timetables/ferry/t/southern-moreton-bay-island-ferry/ Vehicle Barge Ferry: Prices effective until 31st March 2019, For travel to Karragarra, Macleay, Lamb and Russell Islands, To / From Redland Bay One Way Price: Car, 4WD, Ute (up to 5.4m long and 2.0m wide) $62.00 Residents ($52.00 ) REFERENCE https://www.stradbrokeferries.com.au/pricing/southern-moreton-bay-island-ferry-price-list

Hi, for those that commute by ferry daily for work to the mainland - where do you park your vehicle and what are the costs roughly each week?

Free public carparks on island and free parking at Weinam Creek Marina carpark. There are time restrictions in all parts of free public car parks. The longest free time limit is 3 days. There is a wait list for paid council parking secure compound at Weinam creek

There are also quite a few private parking lots. We pay $90 a month for secure parking on Banana Street. There is also free parking up the top of Meissner Street for 7 days.

I also just read an article saying that Redland City Council is going to trial a car-sharing service at Redland Bay Marina so it might become easier to live on the island without needing to own a car.

Hi, It's so nice to read so many wonderful comments here about the Island. 1. Can anyone guide me if this is the place for only home owners or is it good for investment as well? 2 .If we buy a land here, do we have a timeline to build a house or can keep it as land for sometime till we save some money? 3. If we have to use our own car inside the Island how much is the cost if there is any rules. Not sure where I read about it.

Hi John, 1. Russell Island is a great place to own an investment property. Gross rental yields are about 6%. 2. If you buy vacant land there is no time limit for building but you need to be aware that the holding costs will be quite high. You might be paying $1600 a year or more in rates plus the cost to mow and maintain the land. 3. If you own a car that is used mostly for island use only you get a big discount on the registration fees. If you need to take you car to the mainland you can set up an account with Stradbroke Ferries and island residents pay $52 one way on the barges. When the new shopping centre is completed at Redland Bay you will be able to walk off the ferry and straight into the shopping centre so there'll be much less need for taking a car over to the mainland.

Hi, Which is the best area to buy and settle down in Russell. Have been reading lots of post here and some say to stay away from certain areas.. Can someone please guide. Thanks!

can you take your car on the ferry?

Yes https://www.sealinkseq.com.au/bay-islands

Hi Brad, Im interested in buildimg my first home on Russell island. Any recommendations as to who go with? Thanks

Hi ,I am Peter Faram I live in Mackay I have a block of land on Russell Island . I bought it 35 years ago for a investment ,It is at number 3 Coleus Street it is a small block 500 sq we have to sell it asap $25000 tops or make me a offer phone if you like 0400584603

Hi Brad. Can you please share your building experience on the island, as we planned to buy a block and build too. Thanks

Hey Brad I'm a builder and looking to move back up to Qld as soon as this lockdown stuff allows, like the Islands but want to ask do you have issues with theft where you park your car on mainland or are your tools on site so not in your vehicle. Been told there's plenty of work for builders on the Islands but I still need to do all my checks on working on the mainland etc. Jason

Hi Pixiea, I'm in my 50's and live on my own in Melbourne. I need to get off the rental-treadmill and i am thinking about buying a block of land on Russell Island. What you said about the Island sounds good to me.

Highly recommend emailing Alana, shes a young agent on the island and was so helpful! [email protected]

Ivan checkout this instagram page it's got lots of video and pics of Russell island instagram.com/russellisland.qld/ Also Facebook has lots of info about the island community.

Hi Alia, Thank you for posting Alana's email address. I appreciate that.

Hi Dave, thank you for posting the information. I will view it. I appreciate your help.

Great comment Mack about Russell Island being like a small country town between two major cites. That is my feeling about the place too. My wife and I own three investment properties on the island and we have spent quite a bit of time there. It does, indeed, feel like a lovely, quiet country town but with fantastic access to Morton Bay, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. It is totally underrated in my opinion. Sure there are a few bogans around but show me a place in Australia that doesn't have that. I've never seen a snake and the midges are only bad in certain areas. Now with the new development going ahead at Wynam Creek it is going to become super easy to catch the ferry over and step straight into a shopping centre. I think the days of cheap real estate on Russell won't last much longer. I also think that the name change to Canaipa Island will help with removing the stigma of the 1970's dodgy land deals. We love it and may well end up retiring there when the time comes.

Hi Andy. We planned to buy investment property on Russell island, just wondering is rental return good?if you don't mind me asking, Which agent do u use to look after the property?thanks

Hi @andyl16 , Same question as above how is investment looking like at Russell and whom should we contact please. Thanks!

Hi John and Quinnys, Gross Rental Yields on Russell Island are generally about 6%. We use LJHooker as our property managers and have been very happy with them. Personally, I think real estate prices on Russell will go up significantly over the next 5-10 years. Meanwhile the rental yields more than cover the holding costs. I suggest sticking to the north end of the island, the closer to the shops and the ferry terminal the better, then it's pretty easy to live on the island without a car.

Can someone living on the island tell me about daycare and schools both primary and secondary. Do kids have to catch a ferry to the mainland or are there schools on the island?

Alia11 can you please give me details on your builder.

Checkout the builders listed here: https://www.bayislandsinfo.com/businesses/category/builders/ https://hipages.com.au/find/builders/qld/russell_island www.kcwdevelopments.com/ ALL ISLAND SERVICES ARE LISTED ON D.O.T.S ISLAND DIRECTORY http://www.bayislandnews.com.au/d-o-t-s/

Can you tell me which builder you used and was it turn key? All inclusive costs?

Russell island builders & construction companies. https://www.facebook.com/russellislandbuilder/ https://www.facebook.com/Rizzobuilding/ www.kcwdevelopments.com Curlew Homes can build a 3 bedroom, 2 Bathroom home $165,000. www.curlewhomes.com.au https://www.facebook.com/OwnerBuiltHomes/ More info on Russell island builders here https://www.facebook.com/groups/1662449200674123/

WE CAME TO HAVE A LOOK FOR THE DAY AND BOUGHT A HOUSE 3 YEARS AGO.. BEST MOVE YET WEVE FENCED DONE THE GARDEN AND HAVE EVERYTHING WE WANT AND NEED FOR UNDER 260K LESS THAN HALF THE PRICE ON THE MAINLAND. BORROWING WAS THRU ANZ WITH GOOD DEPOSIT AND WE LOVE THE FERRY RIDE TO VICTORIA POINT WHERE WE KEEP THE CAR AT 100 PER MONTH IN SECURE PARKING. DOWN SIDE IS RATES ARE STEEP AND THIS YEAR MIDGES ARE DEVOURING US 24 HOURS BUT THEY DO SPRAY. RECOMENDED TO THOSE WHO DONT NEED THE MAINLAND WE HAVE IGA WHO PRICE MATCH CAFES NURSERY KEBAB SHOP CHINESE FOOD CHEMIST POST OFFICE BAKERY AND RSL AND BOWLS CLUB ..MORE THAN ENUFF SELECTION FOR US. DONT HESITATE THERES SOME BARGAINS HERE RIGHT NOW. GOOD LUCK

Erm ... brentw5, for future reference please don't post anything in 'all capital letters' ever again, on any internet forum. No one will read it, because reading a large chunk of text that is all typed in capital letters is EXTREMELY TEDIOUS. The reason is that the standard visual cues contained in NORMAL text are all absent in 'all caps' text, because every letter is exactly the same height. THEREFORE, it's extremely tedious to read, and consequently no one bothers to read it. JUZ' SAYIN'.

Thinking of buying on Russell. Where would you consider the best blocks and best part of the Island? Building or already built? We are retired and looking to sell on the mainland and have some money over. Roz

Hi roslynr, yes come on over. I would say depends on what you want, waterviews? close to services, shops, clubs, coffee shops, doctors, church, police, ambo, fire station, etc? then you will need to buy on the the northern end, which is closest to the ferry terminal but remember that is the busiest part of the island OR if you want peace and quite, close to the beach, many elevated blocks still available, then the southern end of Russell would be best. When looking at the map, towards the southern end, you will find the most expensive street on Russell is, Wahine Drive, with deep water anchorage available if you are prepared to pay for it!. Two things you have to take into account on the southern end, make sure when buying that you can get mobile and internet connection and you would need a car to get back to shops etc. There are boat ramps at both ends of the island.

Hi roslyn, although 8 Martin place does not have ocean views, it is on a beautiful quiet street close to wahinie drive. It has been cleared surveyed and soil tested (which costs approx 8k) ....please look at it on google maps as it won't disappoint .

What is the Cost Of The Ferry For A disability pensioner

Hi faithg, tried to email you days ago, there was something wrong with the system. Now can answer you hopefully. FARES: concession using a gocard: $2.98 each way or $2.38 each way off peak. Paper ticket: $4.30 each way concession. Hope this helps

What are your rates like? As in how much are you paying? They say it is a percentage of your land value, But if your land is worth 20 000 what are they claiming from you?

I have a house on 600m2 approx, valued at $23,000 for the block and am paying around $2,000 annually in rates!

Hey I love here, but anyone coming here has to be informed as there are compromises which need to be made such as learning to live with the 20 min trip on the passenger ferries or the 40+min trip on the vehicular barge. Some women, I have heard, have left in the past as apparently they disliked living on the islands, due to the fact that major shopping centres are an effort away, men, generally, tend to love it here more, for fishing, yachting, boating, tinkering in their sheds, the socialising etc. As I have mentioned in a post previously, the islands have, 2 primary schools (NO HIGH SCHOOL!), a child care centre, Bowls, Golf, RSL, Yacht, Sailing, Kayaking and social clubs, art societies, Redlands City Library branches, community garden club and regular craft markets, organic markets, swimming enclosures, support groups, alternative therapists, doctors, dentists, pharmacies, vets, nurseries, hardware, a 2 dollar shop, IGA, Spar, 5 Star supermarkets, simple restaurants/takeaway cafes, a Motel, B & B's, holiday homes, all can be found on our islands. The SMBI's do have their problems but I will say one, thing, if you need to save, here is the place to do so. My husband and I hardly spend any money at all to live, compared to what we once spent when living on the mainland, and many of our neighbours and family, who also live on the islands, say the same thing. As there is none of "keeping up with The Joneses" here, you can just be yourself! Great for saving for special holidays etc. The community spirit here, is great, I have never encounted a community like it previously, in all my years living on the mainland! Will stay for good!

Definitely agree with 88KATmando! It is all about being aware, well informed so you make an educated decision if you want to move to the Island or not. Make sure your expectations matches reality. The bulk of the inhabitants seem to be older. There is a fairly large older retiree population on the Island. (Roughly 2/3) Could be a great transitional place for young families...well, at least until you're child starts going to High school. That's when you move to the mainlands. If you want a career, Russel Island might not be the place for you. Just need to ask yourself, why are you moving to Russel Island...and how long you plan to stay there for?

There is no sewerage or power on Russel island. But is it hooked up to water?

I am looking at moving to Russel island with my young family to live a much more relaxed lifestyle to escape the daily grind of the big city. Ive seen that there is a huge unemployment rate but I guess the quantity of retired people will make up the majority of this. I will be looking for work while I am there and I am just seeing what is around or what is available. Or even how people have managed to just get by which is all Im worried about doing. I am also after information about internet connections prices and what companies offer services as my wife runs an online business.

There is a high rate of unemployment on all of the Bay Islands, not just Russell. In part, it is due to a higher than usual percentage of retirees living here. The unemployment is high, probably for three reasons, not a lot of work here, relatively cheap cost of living, and the logistics of getting to work on ferries. That said, I started a business here that is thriving and have often had trouble finding workers who want to work. A friend just moved here and has all the work he needs as a labourer with builders and other tradies. Like anywhere, if you are resouceful and want to work, you shouldn't have too much trouble. Internet is ok, costs similar to the mainland and works fine although speeds can vary a bit. We have a plan similar to what is available anywhere. Despite what you read in these forums, it is a great place to live, quiet lifestyle, great fishing and crabbing, and pretty much everything you need is here. High school kids go to the mainland and are collected by busses at both ends of the ferry. My grandson does this and it works fine. I also have a lot of friends who work in the mainland. They complain about the ferries adding extra time to their working days, I just tell them to get over it. Personally, going to work in a hundred foot speedboat each day would suit me. Good luck with the move, FD.

Personally, I don't want a bridge to be built as I live on Rocky Point and it will land right on our doorstep, the island is lovely and the people are so friendly compared to the city, we are a conservation area as a diver I really love it..after all we are both county people at heart...my husband and I both have island rego on our cars and we keep a car on the mainland so Dunc can work over there...after all the little cottage we bought was really cheap but we need more land so when I get out of my chronic back and leg pain I want to buy a horse and my hubby can set up a garage and store his tools here rather than a storage shed on the mainland.....he's a painter & also needs to set up a recycling set-up for his paint (as toxic to local wildlife)...... we're also going to get some geese who will keep vermin like spiders and vermin under control & breed some dragonflies who will keep the mosquities and midgies under control who love to eat my delicate skin (have scars from the rotten things all over my legs and arms) have heard from the locals the trick is not to scratch. I'm going to put an ad in local rag next edition, in the meantime if you need a quality painter, call Duncan Scott on 0413 581 680, you can also look up his references on True local....I am a fully qualified Project Manager, and do the business management and admin for Dunc while he does the painting.... To see his references go to https://www.truelocal.com.au and look up Dunc the Painter & Handyman!!!

There is virtually no rate money returned to Russell Island in the form of infrastructure. Ratepayers see their rates spent on the mainland . Where is the competition and incentive to invest in this lovely place when development is stifled . The internet is almost non existent, so working from home is not an option.

My internet and phone are as good, if not better than on the mainland. There is an Optus tower 2km away.

Re 'There is no ... power on Russel island.' This is simply utter BS, and the post stating this clear falsehood is yet another demonstration that ALL UNDATED posts on this forum should be deleted by the operators of this website/forum, forthwith. The retention of these 'prehistoric' posts amounts to the blatant dissemination of misinformation.

Whilst I agree that there is a lot more the council could be doing, I would argue that have provided a fair few facilities, with more (Kennedy Farm and Recreation Park) on the way. But there is still a lot more to be done, that is for sure.

Rates on Russel are dearer then our rates in Melbourne on a waterfront property & we get garbage collection & sewage here. Redlands council are thieves you get nothing for your money,

Rates are ludicrious and they dont do walkways or garbage. Redlands get priority works and russel island gets nothing in comparison. The rates are not a percent of property value as linked in other places. Here a 14000 dollar vacant land can run 2000 for rates. The same value in WA with the landcorp 10 000 blocks run at less then 300 per year. If you just want land then annual rates and slashing of land is a big chink. Land values unlickly to rise quickly- rated as a poor financial investment but an awesome lifestyle investment for living is comunity orientated friendly cheaper then remote locals inner australia and work is abundant in mainland and some other islands. Buy russell island if you love bbqs and people an want to live debt free sooner.

the reason the rates are so high is because they are supposedly using the money to build a bridge. this was planned in like, 2001. they just never built the damn thing

Forget the bridge, unless you are really young, you will never see it, it will be a lifetime coming. Get th sewerage done first, that would help things along no end here. FD

No get a bridge and all that will come with it!! The problem is that there aren't enough people there. Build a bridge you get more people, get more people you get better services

The trouble with getting a bridge, of course, is the huge influx of thieves and drug dealers who can drive off the island faster than waiting for a barge or watertaxi.

Getting the bridge might be too big of a leap for Redland council. Might be best to focus on things that's much more affordable and has more immediate benefits to the local community, while also laying the groundwork for the possibility of a bridge from Russel Island to the Mainland in the future. Like create simple bridges connecting the various Islands - have 1 main barge. This should make it a lot more affordable to service the islands, because we get treated as one whole big Island oppose to segmented smaller islands. Might even lead to us having our own High school - which should help with the future generations. It should also make transportation both cheaper and quicker...because the ferry/barge doesn't need to stop at multiple Islands when it can just stop at 1 big Island with a fairly decent population.

Land for the high school has already been planned and allocated for Russell Island. If you have a look at the map located at the front of Russell Island Real Estate, it is on theirs.

*UPDATE* to Margaret Spratt's post above re: 'Land for the high school has already been planned and allocated ...(etc.)' This plan/allocation has now been canned, and instead a 10-hectare botanical garden will be built on that proposed site. Personally this suits me to a tea, but it must have been a shocking disappointment to those who were hoping the high-school would eventuate. It's now clear that it won't, at least not for many years yet.

Russell Island has garbage and recycling collected every week.

Yes !

Is there work on the island my son is looking to buy land he is a Diesel machcanic

Its the biting insects that are putting me off, is it all year round or just summer?

I follow this instagram site, and it has lots of images of Russell Island https://instagram.com/russellisland.qld/ Also the Russell Island Ferry Terminal upgrade by State government now underway.

Currently arranging a removal home to Russell Island. Apart from other issues, One has to get a fire risk report for council for each property. How difficult is it for council to get a fire risk report for the whole Island and charge a flat fee for all buildings being put up, rather than burden each home builder to produce an individual report at a heavy cost ?

Garbage and recycling are collected once a week.

Most blocks on Russell are around the 550 - 600sqm. The areas that flood will be pretty obvious when you walk around the block and there are not very many of them. As always do your homework and do not believe real estate agents, check everything. As to the shopping centre, we have a supa IGA which is pretty good although a little high on price sometimes. Most of Russell was once farmland and a lot still is. Look for the red soil if you want to grow seriously great veges. There is plenty around. Russell does not have town sewerage so if you build a house you need to have a secondary treatment system installed. These cost around $10k give or take. Generally speaking, you will not have to leave the island much and can live a pretty great lifestyle here. Don't believe the stories about drugs and cime, it is pretty much rubbish. Having lived here for some years, we have a great circle of respectable friends, have never had anything pinched and would not trade it for anything. Never felt safer than I do here. As to the school, call them and ask, get the story first hand. One of my friends has a lad who did all his schooling on Russell and turned out a really good kid. He is 2nd year high school now. According to council, it is most unlikely a high school will be built on Russell for a long time. The strategy now is mega schools and bussing kids in, not building small schools everywhere. FD

I would like to discuss if still 4 sale

Saw a nice block in a quiet area, but still close to town a week or so ago with Russell Island real estate. Block was in Hunter street, sort of off the end of High Street. Was about $20k from memory. FD

roslynr What is your asking price and size of block?

I purchased for 29k and am selling for 25k plus costs (either real estate or solicitor). It is almost 600sqm, cleared, surveyed and soil tested. The block next door is 32k uncleared

Hi Marilyn, please email me at [email protected] have a look at it on google maps ...the block is 8 Martin Place

Can you put a caravan on sections- no covenants?

Hi christina-stroudc, probably not, not for long anyway, once the council see it or get word of it, they will make you take it off your block. No real covenants though, as in: the property must be brick or no front fence allowed or a certain value of build, as in some formal estates on the mainland, but whether it be a container home right up to a mansion, all builds over here must go through council or a certifier for approval. As I have stated previously, some people in the past have made it hard for the rest of us who came after, as rightly so, they don't want half built houses or shackes being built here any longer. The cost of moving a house on the islands, is expensive unless you have some money behind you, as the council bond is quite a lot of money, 5 years ago when we were going through the exercise, the council wanted a bond upfront of some $55k, which you did not get back, until the home was completely finished and had all your certificates and checks, so how much it would be now?, I would imagine that figure has increased, hence we did not go that way. Good luck

I believe council allow you to live in a caravan on your land while you are building a house, providing you have your septic system in place, approved and operating. You would need to confirm this. I imagine there would be some sort of time limit. One thing to be aware of is that council are not keen on houses with a gross floor area of under 60sqm. That is not to say, you cant build something under 60sqm but they will look pretty hard at it to ensure it is in keeping with surrounding houses. They are trying to get away from people putting up a shed with a window and a door, and living in it. A good thing I think. If you park a van on a block and just start living there, you will be lucky to last very long until they move you on. FD

Hi Tezzah, yes come over and have a look. You can live as eco friendly as you like, with garden groups on each island, with visiting experts coming along for talks on many things eco friendly, it is up to you how green you go. Good soil, some areas of the islands better than others (used to be many farms here providing food to Brisbane by barge years ago) I am sure you would find someone o'here who has already done the eco thing, who could help you out. The council is still allowing people to put container homes here, a cheap option. You can find some out of the way blocks for $20k+ from 500sm+ up. There are 4 islands here, Russell, Macleay (the largest two) Karragarra (the dearest) and Lamb Island, all only 5 - 10 minutes between each of the 4, with passenger ferry travel free between the islands, you also have the option to walk on and off the vehicular barges, for about $5 as they make their way around the islands. Nurseries, hardware, 2 dollar shop, IGA or Spar, petrol pumps, schools, police, social clubs and op shops, on each or either Russell and Macleay Islands, with a recreation club and small shop on Lamb Is. There are 4 islands here, Russell, Macleay (the largest two) Karragarra (the dearest and no shops) and Lamb Island, all only 5 - 10 minutes between each of the 4, with passenger ferry travel, free between each of the islands, you also have the option to walk on and off the vehicular barges, for about $5 as they make their way around the islands. All ferries and barges leave from Redland Bay. You can walk your dog on and off the passenger ferry, they must have a muzzle though, or carry your cat in a carry cage. You can carry one trolley up to 65cm x 65cm with nothing stacked over the height of the trolley. Transporting building supplies to the island is an extra cost you have to factor in, but once again there are many old timers who know all the tricks/short cuts/best way to save a dollar re transport or making do, with local transport services providing a collection service from all the major retailers, Harvey Norman etc, for white goods etc. The community: It is a real community o'here and most people are more than willing to impart their experiences or knowledge and we have found all sorts of tradies who live on the islands and others with innovative minds who have gotten around the odd problem when they present themselves. It is like stepping back in time o'here, I know many people by their first name, more than any other place I have lived in my 61 years, most people here would do you a good turn than a bad. Some ferrals here, and a bit of a drug taking element also, but there are also many highly intellegent well travelled people, many yachties or ex yachties and all types of artists who reside here. Many people have their own run abouts and love to fish. Me personally, I am here for good!

Hi I'm soooo looking forward to coming across to Russell island looking for that tranquil lifestyle wanting to buy a block live in caravan until I can buy container for my home does council allow this

I have a lovely cleared block for sale at 8 Martin Place as I need to upkeep my other 3 Blocks on Russell Island .... [email protected]

My husband and I bought a block, 9 Phoenix St, on the northern end of Russell. I love the island, but sadly my husband passed away and I have no plans to move to the island on my own. Since then I try and keep up with the ridiculous rates and mowing until I get an offer. Email: [email protected] Cheers

I don't know where you find all the tradies that you mention? I have had problems trying to get a plumber & a tiler to do some alterations for me, they are not interested.

No NBN as yet, it appears to be a way off for the SMBI's. I have lived on both Macleay and Lamb Islands and find my coverage is good. Be aware that when you phone to sign up, you will probably be told that internet is available in your street/location but what they won't tell you is that there may not be any ports available and you may then have to wait till one is available and that is not on first in basis, it is based on whether you are lucky enough to have someone next door or across the road or down the street who moves out or no longer needs internet and then you would be the next person to get that port, so distribution appears to be based on your location and the closest available port only and not how long you have been waiting. I lived on Macleay for 12 months with no ports availabe to me in that whole time, it was not until I moved to Lamb that I got internet connection fairly quickly. Also some people I believe on the southern end of Russell Island have poor/to no mobile coverage/connection, but I am not sure about their internet connection?

definetly buy existing property,, on Russell everything is for sell no buyers only dreamers

There is Foxtel Satellite available.

$1200 - $2000. Check with Redlands council. Low lying areas or near swamps. Around $600 - $800 depending on what you need. You can build in most blocks that you can buy nowadays.

About $300 a quarter year

Are there Discounts for Pensioners regarding Rates ?. What about Water ?. As R.I. has no Town sewage, how is waste removed ?. Is there Bunnings Hardware on the Island ?.

I was just wonder if you got yourself a builder yet, would you be kind enough to let me know when you do? Thanks

No I havent find buolder that can build a prefab/kit house yet. If u are a builder and can build a prefab house pls email me [email protected] thank you, Zara

Oh...I wish I was, I only have a bloke of land there and would like also to put a kit home there. Thank you anyway Zara.

By the way, may I ask where did you or are you buying your pre-fab kit from? Would be greatly appreciated to know that.

Hi, i know builder,I bought the house on R.I from him it is perfect home....his name is Dino ...and I think company name is Dinobuilding.....

There are a number of builders on the island who build one offs or spec homes. Also, plenty of excellent tradesen, except plumbers, real problem there. We moved here a few years ago and have just finished a new home. Talk to the real estate agents, they can put you in touch with a builder. K

I saw blocks there for 10,000, is this still possible? How long can it remain vacant before one must build

Anything for around $10k would really not be a place you would want to live or have so much big timber on it that it would cost a fortune to have it cleared before building. Good land is available for around the $20 - $30k mark no problem. There is no mandate on when you have to build, keep it for twenty years facant if you want. K

I have a good high block for sale and its cleared, surveyed and soil tested...all ready to go

[email protected]

Hi Margaret, Is there any views from your block and would you please advise size of land?

There are no water views from the block as it is in a lovely quiet treed street which has two other houses on the street a and plenty of council owned blocks to ensure it always stays that way even though it is just two streets back from the main road. It is 597sqm and has an wildlife easement beside so neighbours are unable to build close to it. It has an 17 metre frontage and is approximately 34.5 metres deep and is a cleared level block from front to rear with a tree central on back boundary. The Dirt road is to be green sealed this year and all amenities run past this block on its side of the road for cheaper connection

Thank you Margaret. We are coming over on the 15th to have a look, will check it out.

Hi Roslyn, did you get a chance to have a look at the block.....if so, sorry I haven't mowed it in a few months .....meg

Hi Margaret can I get the number of your block if it's still for sale ,coming to look at land on the 19th aug

8 Martin Place ....if seeing a real estate please see Bevan at Russell Island Real Estate....people will try to sell you blocks for around $18K but be careful as they can end up more expensive after survey, soil test and clearing, and are often not flat blocks that are high above water table. Meg

Hello Margret, I'm new to this forum. I've been following your comments. I am . interested in knowing whether you found a buyer for your block. I will be over their this Saturday 16/09 to look for land. It'll be my first time there. Regards C

Hi mip, did you come on over, just read your post from earlier this year. Council does not let you live in a caravan on your block (but some people do it!) If you start to build, your plans must be approved through council, then I believe you must have your house completed within 2 years. Check with council. Your can rent a house for somewhere between $210pw to most listed around $250pw or higher for waterfront, larger or newer homes. Good luck

For all, some recent improvements: Fire preparation: on all islands, because of the fires on Macleay and Russell last season, a report was commissioned and council will now, do more back burning before summer, encourage (enforce?) owners to reduce fire load on their blocks, remove any car bodies etc, make sure all fire hydrants are cleared of growth and easily accessed in case of fire. Overall for all of us to prepare better for fire season. Report available through council. Lamb Island: all (all but a few) of our streets are currently being sealed, with fresh grass laid on the verge - looks good, it is now up to Lamb Islanders to take care of it! More parking at the ferry terminal is now needed on Lamb, have noticed in past couple of months more cars on the island. Less "ferals" "druggies" than when we moved here 3 years ago. Macleay Island: (changes that I know of) they have started building the additional car parking area at the terminal, much needed. Russell Island: Contemplation garden has been finished, a place where you can sit and think about your lost loved ones and you can also apply to have their ashes placed there (no cremations or funeral burials done on the islands though). Library, extended hours at the library now, a further 5.5hours per week of opening hours have been added. Chinese restaurant: expensive, but we got a take away meal and liked it, staff friendly but on the day we ordered, lady could not speak english. Did not know what an omelette was? I have been told by residents that the current police are moving some druggies off the island. Karragarra Island: Very active Community Garden, very well run, with lots of expert visits, talks, some excursions. Not sure of any other improvements, those living there would know best. Also what we fail to mention often, is our wonderful wildlife. Love hearing nothing but the birds in all the gardens and trees surrounding my place - heaven

Yes currently available email me on [email protected]

Did you find a builder?

You have some good advise to live there before you decide to buy there, Would you able to recommend local accommodation where I could just that ?

Hi grantc4, not sure who your question is directed at, but, for short term accommodation, try The Grove, an easy walk up from the ferry terminal on Russell Island, has just changed hands and undergone a reno. I am not aware of any feedback re the place, but looks better than before. Yarrandabbi Dreaming award winning B & B on Macleay Is. Stayz have some island accommodation houses listed for holiday rental, some at reasonable rates. The local realestate agencies should be able to help you also, they may have some holiday accommodation on their books, if not, most look after property management/rentals with leases for 6- 12 months periods. On Macleay Island, LJ Hooker and Raine & Horne would be a place to start. Long term house rental available starting at about $250pw. Make sure you have some income before coming to the islands as not a lot of jobs on the islands OR all taken! So that means a 20min ferry ride back to the mainland, at cost, with bus transport at the marina, but a car left on the mainland (at full rego rates, whilst any car registered and left on the islands the cost is at 1/2 price rego) Your own car would give you more scope and I wouldn't count on getting a job at Redland Bay/suburb where marina is, either, but the Redlands is a large shire/city, so you should pick something up, dependant on your skill set. Farms, light industry, retail, council jobs, are some of the most prevalent jobs handy on the mainland. Good luck!

Can anyone confirm if and when the Victoria Harbor marina development is to start? my understanding is its a 2 billion development that has been approved [email protected]

I am also keen on buying a block on the island. We want a long term holiday destination. In other words build in maybe 10+ years once the land is paid off. Can you go on weekend trips and pitch a tent on your own block for a weekend here? Is there restrictions for that at all? Thanks in advance

Thinking of buying a block, but a must is dog freindly beach for our Border Collie that love swimming, Can't find any specifics online. Anyone know the situation please?

I have 3 blocks for sale. Selling health reasons 5 Blackland $21.000 15 Cynthia $ 23,000 19 Cynthia $23,000 see L J hooker

8 Martin Place, cleared, surveyed and soil tested ...is for sale [email protected]

Saw one that may suit you, 5 Forest Hills, town block, nice house next door, walk to bowls club, lovely trees, quiet spot. Probably buy for mid 20's according to agent. That sounded like a fairly good deal to me. FD

I have purchased and am now selling a little further away for the hassle and bustle of town as this is where the renters can afford and the population is more transient with more crime and stealing that end ....Sandy beach is a little far from everything, so this one is centrally located and two streets back from main road for quiet living.

Hi Margaret, I left you a question in another conversation. Just wondering if you still have that block for sale and whether it has any views and the size of the block? Thank you, roz

Hi roslyn, although 8 Martin place does not have ocean views, it is on a beautiful quiet street close to wahinie drive. It has been cleared surveyed and soil tested (which costs approx 8k) ....please look at it on google maps as it won't disappoint . It is almost 600sqm

Email me on [email protected]

We take our dogs swimming at sandy beach most days and is leash free as long as dogs are behaved ....BBQs and toilets are there too....camping on block happens everywhere here ..

I am wondering if the fishing and crabbing fishing need special license? If we are living on any of the island, and special deals?

I am not a fisherwoman, but I do know, no licences needed to fish or crab, just catch size and amount limits, which the relative Govt dept will be able to help you with information on, and in prawn season you see in the waterways in between the islands, groups of small dingies herding schools of prawns and I believe each boat gets a good feed of prawns. You need to get a marine map as some areas are marked marine park and you cannot fish there or you will be very heavily fined.

Thank you for your info @56music

Any one know how to book a short stay on the island? Are there any motels or holiday accommodations on the island?

Yes you can get a motel room at The Grove, newly renovated in past year Ph 0459465380, the good thing about The Grove is it is 150m from the ferry jetty on Russell Island, so easy walk, and close to IGA, coffee shops etc, it is the only motel on the islands, or you can find holiday houses on Stayz or through the Real Estate Agents on the islands, LJ Hooker, Ray White etc, JUST MAKE SURE YOU CAN WALK TO THE FERRY or to grocery supplies OR make sure THEY HAVE FERRY PICKUP from wherever you book in! as we have no public transport on the islands. We have taxi's on Macleay and Russell but they can work out to be expensive!

Super! Thanks so much for the info@56music, assume that the Grove would provide kitchen and bathroom that kind of basic needs? No public transport seems to be a bit pain. How long you have been live on the island? I assume that wifi might be a problem too? What about mobile networks? Or mobile data signals?

Hi lilll, Yes The Grove, has a bathroom, jug and cups but not a kitchen or microwave, but you can get take away pizza and items from the hotbox from the IGA (across the road) plus kebab shop, chinese restaurant (a bit dear but food is fine) plus coffee shops with meals and sandwiches are all around The Grove, plus a Thirsty Camel (bottle shop) next door. If you look at some of my past posts under either 56music or 88KATmando on any of the Russell Island questions you will see my answers to your other questions. Have been here for just over 4 years and love it. As long as you are flexible, what you get for me is more than you give up, but not all people like it. If you want a kitchen probably best to rent a holiday home, most have cheap weekly rental charges. Enjoy your trip over and bring your fishing rod, bait and fishing supplies are available at IGA and local garage on Russell Is which is walking distance from The Grove, and on Macleay Is bait is available at AutoMarine Shop and also Spar and 5 Star supermarkets there. Yes if you plan to live on Russell or Macleay and decide to live a distance from the ferry jetties, you will need some form of transport, a car, motorbike or bicycle, but some people are prepared to walk a long way on the larger islands. Karragarra (dearer than the other 3 islands) is walkable as is Lamb Is 1kl x 2kl (but no supermarkets! on those islands) - good luck

can one camp on Russell island is there shower and toilets for the public ?

Hi kevinm10, I believe there is only one spot to camp on Russell Island and that is at Lions Boulevard Park/Sandy Beach, but unfortunately it is 7.7kl from the ferry terminal, so unless you have your car or a bicycle with you (you can take a bike on the passenger or walk them onto the vehicular ferries, both leave from Redland Bay) you would need to catch a taxi. You can call the taxi service from the ferry terminal, sorry I don't have the number, but it should be at the terminal notice board or if you ask someone they may have it on them or local shops may have it? (sorry but I live on another island) anyway, they will collect you and drop you back when you are ready, (they run most of the day) but it would cost you $20+ dollars EACH WAY! NOT CHEAP, as mentioned there is no public transport on the islands and no hire cars that I am away of. Finally to camp at Sandy Beach I think you may need a permit, and I believe you may be allowed to stay, for only, a couple/few nights, must admit I am not 100% sure on the exact details, you can enquire through the Redlands City Council as the SMBI's are in their shire/jurisdiction. At Sandy Beach, there are toilets, showers and electric bbq's and a nice unpatrolled beach, it is a lovely spot as it looks across a short distance to Stradbroke Island...Also if you do come over and decide to stay in a holiday house, and come over via one of the vehicular ferries with your car and also bring a boat, there are a number of boat ramps on Russell Is - Good luck.

thanks 56 Does a rate payer get a ferry discount? can you camp on your own block?

Hi kevinm10, best check with Stadbroke Ferries, we used to get a discount as rate payers but they have changed it. I do know they have a last minute type deal, where, if you travel after a certain time of a day and return before a certain time, you get it at a cut rate. (we do get half price rego on vehicles over here though but you have limits on when and for how long you can have your vehicle off the islands) - check with Qld Transport Department on rules and regs re this. Camping: You are not supposed to camp on your own block, but I believe some people do! If you start building on your own block, you must have council approved plans and you must finish the home, with all council inspections completed, within, I think it is 2 years, this is to stop some of the practices in the past of people building shacks or half built houses bringing down the tone of the islands etc. Also if you think about bringing a removal house over here, the Redland City Council hit you up a very large bond ($60k+?) which you get back after all your council inspections are done, so that, once again there are no half built houses left here to rot!, but some people are still getting container homes passed by council and there are a lot of cheaper builds, allowed, which is good as "no keeping up with the Joneses" over here!

Hi all i have few questions about Macleay Island I was planning to buy Land for 20-30k and to bring foldable prefab home aprox 40m2... I wanted to ask you guys about this things: 1. I need around 8k for septic system right ? 2. Is connection to the house included with septic system, if not how much aprox ? 3. Is there Electricity on Island ? If yes how much would it cost (aprox) to connect it from the street ? (because prefab home got all internal installations already) 4. Is there water system ? If yes how much would it cost (aprox) to connect it to the house ? If not what options do i have ? and How much should i expect to pay for it ? 5. I was thinking to get this house on the Macleay : https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Expandable-Two-Bedroom-Folding-Granny-Flat-House-37sqm-Free-Upgrades-Best-Value/122846370792?hash=item1c9a36dbe8:g:JcQAAOSwUwFaAPmo May i ask you how much does it cost to get all council approvals, etc for this one or for similar one ? 6. I saw few comment about camping/caravan on your own block... I just wondering if i bring this prefab home can i stay permanently there ? 7. Someone mentioned 2 year rule for Caravan/Container on your own land, is this true or ? 8. Garbage collection / Water tanks etc... How do you get rid of garbage if there is no garbage collection on island ? If there is no water system, that means that i need water tank or something on my property, so how much would it cost to install one and what are rates to get water weekly etc aprox ? Thank you upfront :)

You find out most of this stuff on your first visit. Only thought I have - is it a good idea to get one of these pre-fab houses. 37 sq metres is not much room. I think you'd find it cheaper to hire a builder, mate. Good luck. The islands are great places to live. Beautiful out here.

jessec3, 37 sq meters is around 20k on ebay with kitchen/bathroom, and its easy to transport because its acctualy expendable container, so only 1 truck needed.

Sorry to put a damper on your dreams but having built a lot of houses and being highly familiar with most brands of kit homes I feel somewhat qualified to comment here. The total costs of buildng a house do not vary much, regardless of what you build, and whether it is a kit or something else. I must say, some kits nowadays are pretty good. Broadly speaking, the cost of much of the whole project does not vary much, regardless of how you build. That is, land, survey, engineering, septic, council fees, are the same, regardless. What saves money, is really two things, how well you buy and how much work you do yourself. If you can complete a well finished house on Russell for less than $1500 per square metre, you better call me as I have a project for you, starting now. The kit homes are not a cheap option, despite what the sales people tell you. They are not "2 People with a spanner and a screwdriver one Saturday afternoon" type jobs. I wish you good luck, but as always, believe nobody, do your homework, amd make sure you cover everything and understand what Prime Cost means, before signing. FD

thx fringedweller but after research i think this 37m2 expandable container is cheapest option. it comes with prebuild bathrom and kitchen. transport should not be more than few thousand, +20k for this home is 25k total , i dont think so that any build from scratch or even any other home can beat this price ofc if you are not doing much by yourself.

No problem, and good luck with your project. I, for one, will be keen to hear how it goes for you. As previously mentioned, please be sure to do ALL of your homework to fully understand what other costs you are going to incur. All the best, FD

Hope: John M asked a lot of interesting/pertinant question. I also am trying to work out if building on one of the islands would be financially do-able. I'm beginning to get the feeling it would not. Would someone be able to answer some more of his questions?Fringedweller mentioned land surveys, septic, council fees and engineering, what else do I need to budget for? I'm guessing no one answered about the garbage because whatever the answer is is either a pain in the butt or slightly illegal... (burn it?, store it to transport all at once??) How flexible are council about what you can live in? I have a pretty wild imagination, (I hope this doesn't make me an undesirable!)

Garbage disposal is the same as the mainland, in that, the council collect each week and take to a transfer station, no problems there. As long as you build something over 60sqm you shouldnt have too much trouble with council. Not that you cant build under that size, but it is a little more complicated. I understand this was to stop people building sheds to live in or something like that. As to a wild imagination, no problem, bring it on, but build something clever!! The balance of your budget will depend on what you build. A conventional style lowset house of around 100sqm should run in to something around a minimum of $1500/sqm depending on the fitout quality. This is assuming you do a fair few things yourself. Clearly, the more you get others to do for you, this higher the cost. FD

i bought a couple of blocks,, just to do a small project,, i did research the most economics to build,, a kit home seems to offer value,, i found one company call framesteel http://framesteel.com.au/3-bedroom-granny-flat-brisbane-69m2/ do you have any infos on that thanks

Well my wife and I, her in her thirties and I my sixties are looking for a quiet crime free place to live. We plan building a small straw bale house [love them] those hot days are not so hot without massive power bills. A worm farm sewerage treatment and an Aquaponics veg. garden. And go fishing a lot . I also do Reiki and do alternative medical practices [had some good results to] My wife likes to clean and talk to people. We both like to recycle and reuse what we can, our footprint on this planet is very important to us. We both ride recumbent push bikes with electric assist. I have camped and toured for years and I find it very important if you bring it in. take it out. I had a serious brain operation years ago for nothing., since I have been treating the real illness I have improved so much, our medical system often treats the symptoms not the disease. So "hi" to our new neighbours but where a couple of months away. We would like to live in a tent whilst we build yes our no. I never thought of soil testing is this expensive. Do I need to do it before I buy. Where do I go for building permits and other information. Contact [email protected]

Checkout https://www.redland.qld.gov.au/info/20206/dwellings/453/building_a_house_on_southern_moreton_bay_islands For more info call Council on 38298999

No DATED POSTS happening in this post/thread yet 'Homely'? So it's essentially useless/misleading? When can we expect you to rectify this? Ever?

Please move ALL undated/historical posts to an 'archive' called something like 'undated/historical posts', and only retain DATED posts (i.e. in conformance with standard practice on the internet since about the year 1990) in the standard forums/discussion threads.

I agree. It should be compulsory that all messages are dated. People want to know when the messages have been posted. I encourage everyone who post their messages on this site should be complaining about this.

This message 17/Dec 2021. Have to start sometime xx

This post 8 April 2023. Totally agree. We are buying a block on Russell Island, and settle in 10 days' time. Can't wait to start building. Will be so much nicer than the Sunshine Coast which is where we have lived for the past 26 years, and which has now become an overrun, overpopulated rat race with constant traffic jams and just way too many people. We have been able to buy our block and pay cash for it, unlike the Sunshine Coast where blocks are minimum 10x that price now thanks to what has happened during the pandemic. So looking forward to moving!