Dunwich

QLD 4183 • Queensland

737
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Income
1.60 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
CoastalHistoricIslandQuiet

About Dunwich

Dunwich (also known by its traditional Nunukul name Goompi) is a historic town on the western side of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah) in Queensland, approximately 30 kilometres east of Brisbane as the crow flies and accessible by ferry from Cleveland or Toondah Harbour. Part of the Redland City local government area, the compact locality covers just 1.6 square kilometres and has a population of 737. Established in 1827 as a British cargo depot and convict station, Dunwich is the main entry point to North Stradbroke Island and carries over 40,000 years of Aboriginal cultural significance.

Dunwich is one of three towns on North Stradbroke Island alongside Amity Point and Point Lookout, and serves as the island's administrative and ferry hub with a general store, café, and the North Stradbroke Island Historical Museum. The surrounding island offers some of Queensland's most spectacular natural scenery — pristine beaches, freshwater lakes including Blue Lake and Tortoise Lagoon, and abundant wildlife including dolphins, manta rays, and migrating whales. The ferry journey from Cleveland takes around 45 minutes, making Dunwich a popular destination for day-trippers and a unique island community for permanent residents who value a relaxed coastal lifestyle close to Brisbane.

Dunwich falls under postcode 4183 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Oodgeroo electorate.

📍 Location

State
Postcode
4183
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
State Electorate
Type
Locality
Timezone
Brisbane (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-27.55°, 153.45°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
1.60 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Stradbroke Island bus services (limited) — Point Lookout 30-40 min

Commute to Brisbane CBD

Distance
35 km
By Train
Ferry to Cleveland (~45 min) then train to Brisbane CBD (~1 hr) — total approx. 2 hours
By Car (Peak)
Not accessible by car directly; ferry + 40-50 min drive from Cleveland
By Car (Off-Peak)
Ferry + 30-40 min drive from Cleveland

🛣️ North Stradbroke Island is accessible by ferry only; Stradbroke Ferries runs regular services from Cleveland

Walkability Car-Dependent

Basic amenities are walkable within the small town centre, but most trips around the island require a vehicle or the limited bus service

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
737
0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
N/A
Income 2021
N/A
0% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dunwich known for? +

Dunwich is the main entry point to North Stradbroke Island and is known for its colonial history dating to 1827, the traditional Nunukul (Goompi) heritage, and as a gateway to the island's stunning beaches, freshwater lakes such as Blue Lake, and diverse wildlife.

How far is Dunwich from Brisbane? +

Dunwich is approximately 35 kilometres east of Brisbane CBD, but travel requires a ferry from Cleveland (about 45 minutes) plus around 40 minutes by train from Cleveland to Brisbane, making the total journey approximately 2 hours.

Does Dunwich have public transport? +

There is no road access to Dunwich — the town is served by regular ferry services from Cleveland (Stradbroke Ferries). Cleveland Station is on the TransLink Cleveland Line with regular services to Brisbane CBD. Limited bus services operate on the island itself.

What is the population of Dunwich? +

According to the 2021 Census, Dunwich has a population of 737 residents, with a relatively high population density for a small island locality of around 320 people per square kilometre.

Is Dunwich a good place to live? +

Dunwich offers a unique island lifestyle within reach of Brisbane, appealing to those who value natural beauty, a close-knit community, and a relaxed pace of life. The island setting, wildlife, and beaches make it a special place, though ferry dependence limits access.

What is the postcode for Dunwich? +

The postcode for Dunwich is 4183, which covers the locality of Dunwich on North Stradbroke Island in Queensland.