East Russell

About East Russell

East Russell is a small coastal rural locality in the Cairns Region of Far North Queensland, situated approximately 80 kilometres south of Cairns CBD between the township of Babinda and the Coral Sea coastline. The Russell River forms the western boundary of the locality, while much of the coastal strip is protected within the Russell River National Park. With a 2021 Census population of 83 residents across 34 dwellings, East Russell remains a quiet and largely undeveloped locality. The area lies within the state electorate of Hill, reflecting its position in the rural hinterland south of Cairns.

Outside the national park, land use is predominantly agricultural, with sugarcane farming the dominant activity in keeping with the broader Mulgrave-Russell region's history as a major cane-growing area. The locality's coastal margins include Mutchero Inlet, where the Russell and Mulgrave rivers meet, and the offshore Frankland Group National Park islands are accessible from the area. Residents rely on nearby Babinda and Innisfail for day-to-day services, schools, and shopping, with Cairns accessible for major retail and healthcare. The area appeals to those seeking a quiet rural or semi-rural lifestyle amid spectacular tropical scenery, with the national park offering walking and wildlife experiences.

East Russell falls under postcode 4861 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Hill electorate.

Nearby Suburbs

• Babinda, QLD 4861
• Bartle Frere, QLD 4861
• Bamboo Creek, QLD 4860
• Belvedere, QLD 4860
• Coconuts, QLD 4860
• Cooroo Lands, QLD 4860