Dreaming of an island escape? Welcome to Lamb Island. This peaceful island is part of Moreton Bay National Marine Park. It offers a tranquil retreat from city life.
Lamb Island is small. It measures just 2km by 1km. It is easy to get around. The island is virtually traffic-free. This makes it perfect for those seeking peace.
Once, Lamb Island thrived on agriculture. In the early 1900s, it was full of small farms. They supplied produce to Brisbane. The island’s micro climate and fertile soil helped farmers. They produced superior crops earlier than mainland growers. Boats like the Roo and Amazon transported goods. They carried produce to Brisbane. They also brought supplies to the island residents.
Peggy Saunders’ garden parties were a well-known attraction. She was the wife of a farmer. Her garden on the western waterfront was beautiful.
Later, in the 1970s, Lamb Island changed. Like other parts of South East Queensland, it was subdivided. Farmland became residential allotments. However, development remained limited. Transport costs for building materials played a big role. Redland City Council has been promoting land buy-backs since 2020. This allows residents to combine neighboring lots.
Organic food is making a comeback. Lamb Island is regaining recognition for its micro climate. The island is known for organically grown produce. Community gardens and local artisans embrace Permaculture values.
The Lamb Island Resident’s Association is very active. It works on community improvement projects. These include tree planting and heritage site maintenance.
In 2021, the island’s population was 504. Lamb Island is accessible by passenger ferry and vehicular barge. The passenger ferry runs frequently. It operates from early morning until late at night. The ride from Redland Bay marina takes about 15 minutes. Travel between the Southern Moreton Bay Islands is free.
Lamb Island offers essential services. It has mainland power and water. Reliable internet, including NBN, is available. A local convenience store is open daily.
For leisure, visit the Lamb Island Recreation Club. It has a dining venue and hosts entertainment. There is a public tennis and basketball court.
Several heritage-listed sites dot Lamb Island. The Dam and melaleuca forest on Lavender Street is significant. The Lamb Island Pioneer Hall on Lucas Drive is another. The Jetty Shed at the end of Lucas Drive was restored by the community. It was used for loading local produce. Thomas Lucas’ Grave is also at the end of Lucas Drive. Mango trees on Tina Avenue are over 100 years old.
“Island Girl” is a notable art installation. It is near the ferry terminal. The “Girt by Sea” visual arts competition displays art around the island.
Lamb Island is more than just a place. It is a community. It is history. It is natural beauty all in one.