Half an hour’s drive from Brisbane’s CBD lies the scenic southern coast of Moreton Bay and the rich red plains that gave Redland its name. Redland City, better known simply as the Redlands, spread out along the southern coast of Moreton Bay. It’s comprised of suburban and coastal communities, including islands, but has no clear city centre.
Redlands is a quintessentially Australian place, with a demographic makeup that mirrors the country as a whole. It’s well loved by families, with high levels of home ownership and slightly higher than average levels of employment and income. The population is overwhelmingly Anglo-Australian, with small but significant immigrant populations from Europe and South Africa.
The newest Elders Real Estate office resides in the bayside township of Cleveland. As the oldest settlement in Moreton Bay, Cleveland is bursting with heritage buildings including an original timber lighthouse and 162 year old town pub. You can take in the sights from the Cleveland Heritage Walk, a 4km trek which meanders past historical buildings. Stop halfway for a seafood lunch at the Lighthouse Cafe, with views across to Stradbroke Island, to finish up with a sugar hit at Jeppo Gelato in the town square.
If you fancy a spot of fishing, boating or water sports, the coastal village of Wellington Point is a must-visit. At low tide, you can walk all the way out to tiny King Island – but don’t dally too long or you’ll get stranded! North Stradbroke Island offers even more options for active types, from snorkeling, kayaking and diving to four wheel driving and sandboarding.
With so much rich scenery on offer, it would be a crime not to slow down and enjoy the vistas. The stunning North Gorge Walk offers the chance to spot marine life in the sparkling blue waters of the rocky gorge. Visit between June and November and keep an eye out for the seasonal migration of humpback whales. Want to get closer to the water? Aria Cruises will take you across to Peel Island for snorkeling and sun, or head to Horseshoe Bay with Brisbane Yacht Charters.
There’s a rich art scene throughout Redlands, with something for everyone to appreciate. Take in the rich colours at the Salt Water Murris’ Quandamooka Indigenous Art Gallery on North Stradbroke Island, or check out the Redland Art Gallery in Cleveland. Over on Macleay Island lies the Macleay Island Arts Centre, where you can admire the art of others or create some of your own.
Foodies are well catered for throughout the Redlands area. Enjoy water views along with your tapas at Elysium, or an indulgent seafood platter for two at Raby Bay’s Fiction Bar. For something different, try a quirky dessert at Whisky Business in Capalaba. Vegemite macarons, anyone?
Wash it down with a glass of wine at Sirromet Winery, Queensland’s largest and most award-winning winery. With stunning views of the surrounding bush and Stradbroke Island, you can settle in and enjoy.
Prefer beer? You’re in luck, with craft breweries dotted along the coast. Start at Cleveland’s Red Bay Brewery, head up to Birkdale to check out the Craft Brew House and finish up in Capalaba where Bacchus Brewing House will serve you an indulgent white chocolate pilsner for dessert.
There’s plenty for families to do, too, from the petting farm at Ted’s Corner in Capalaba to the seaside parks and esplanades of Victoria Point – perfect for picnicking.
Redlands is a truly special corner of Australia, and one that’s well worth a visit. Come and explore!