Macleay Island

Macleay Island is an island located in Moreton Bay, South East Queensland, Australia.^[2] The island constitutes a town and locality within the City of Redland. It has the postcode 4184. Perulpa Island is a small island attached to Macleay Island by a causeway.^[5]Macleay Island is the fourth largest island in Moreton Bay after North Stradbroke Island, Moreton Island and Russell Island.

Macleay Island is the second largest of the four Bay Islands, situated 30km from Brisbane in the Moreton Bay Marine Park at the southern end of Moreton Bay. It is 6.5km long and 4km wide at its widest point. Protected by North Stradbroke Island to the east, Macleay is connected to the mainland by ferries and barges, which also connect to inter-island transport for the four Bay Islands.

More than 3500 people are resident on Macleay, enjoying several beaches for swimming and fishing, as well as a bowls club, golf course and boat club. There is also an Arts Complex consisting of a studio, gallery and pottery shed

I am leaving Macleay on the vehicle ferry. The jetty is currently being enlarged and there will be added parking. Currently you have to walk up a steep road to get to the shops and services, or take a taxi if you do not have your own car.

I have been going to MIAC..Macleay Island Arts Centre..where I take, and run, printing classes.

There is a Gallery there with exhibitions that change regularly showing local artist work. At the Gallery there is also Pottery and Painting classes. Most classes cost $5 a session and you bring your own materials.

Macleay Island has sandy beaches and mangrove foreshores. These are spots for fishing, swimming, sailing, picnicking and barbecues. A launch spot is the Dalpura Ramp towards the north of the island. Pat’s Park at the northern end of the island allows for swimming, BBQs, picnics and has children’s play equipment. The Anzac day services are held at the Cenotaph located there. The island has a skate park for the younger generation, which opened in 2014.

Other recreational facilities include boat, bowling and golfing clubs. The Heritage Trail is marked by signage for users. Macleay is also home to a growing community of artists, some quite well known, and the Arts Centre is well used by painters, potters, sculptors, plus other crafts. Bird watching is a popular activity. There are also various classes available in martial arts, tai chi and yoga. Dragon-boating has recently commenced from the boat club on Sundays.