Fancy buying yourself an island?

By Hannah Edensor

Let’s face it, the current housing market in Australia’s capital cities (we’re looking at you Sydney) is utter crap.

There’s barely a chance anyone who didn’t snag a bargain back in the 80s will be able to save for a deposit for many years to come.

So why not pool your cash with your closest friends and/or family, and buy an island? Honestly we think it’s going to be cheaper.

At least that’s what Domain tells us, in its listing of an actual island off the coast of Australia. Smack bang in the Great Barrier Reef, to be exact.

And the price tag? They’re expecting around $2 million, so probably the cost of a parking space in the inner city.

Pelorus Island is a 4km square tropical isle off the coast of Townsville, and is part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, while also being recognised as a National Park.

And while you can’t buy it then build a thousand apartment buildings and a theme park, you can add a few extra housing features to accommodate you, the owner and sole resident on this island paradise.

By the way, as the only resident on the island, the lucky new island-owner will also be the only one on the 30-year residential lease.

So what exactly comes with the island, we hear you ask as you reach for your calculator and latest bank statement?

The listing reads:

“Accommodation on the Island consists of a single-level, purpose-built open-plan facility that takes in the best aspects of Pelorus. Fully-furnished with unfettered access to all the natural and untouched beauty of the Island, this residence has a sprawling veranda at front with sweeping views to the ocean and surrounds just metres from the water.

“The self-sufficient residence is fully powered by solar with large battery storage systems, dual backup generators are in place along with a fully equipped workshop, 4×4 tractor and 6.3 metre ‘Dale’ boat with 200hp Mercury outboard with auxiliary, beach trailer and 5hp reduction winch on the Island along with a road trailer located at Dungeness near Lucinda. Plus small tender with 6hp outboard and moorings in place.”

And critically, “Rare deep-water surrounding the Island provides easy access to the residence via larger chartered vessels or the Island’s private boat. You may also choose to arrive by helicopter where you have the ability to land and disembark on your own private beach.”

Services around this region are extremely regular & reliable with the Port of Lucinda being only 10 nautical miles away and is a major residential & resort island servicing centre.

You can contact the agent here if this offer floats your boat or if you happen to be keen on eternal island bliss. Your call.

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Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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