Tin Can Bay
QLD 4580 • Rest of QLD
About Tin Can Bay
Tin Can Bay is a peaceful coastal town in Queensland's Wide Bay–Burnett region, located on a peninsula between Snapper Creek and the Great Sandy Strait facing Fraser Island. With approximately 2,300 residents, this former timber and fishing port has evolved into a quiet retirement and holiday destination. The area holds Ramsar Convention wetland status and is an Important Bird Area of Australia, reflecting its ecological significance.
The town is famous for its wild dolphin feeding experience, where Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins visit the shore daily. Recreational fishing—particularly for prawns—remains central to local life, with boat ramps providing access to the Great Sandy Strait. The community has a distinctly relaxed pace with basic shopping, a library, and the historic Tin Can Bay State School (Prep-10). The area attracts retirees, fishing enthusiasts, and those seeking an affordable, unhurried coastal lifestyle away from urban pressures.
Tin Can Bay falls under postcode 4580 and is governed by Gympie Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Gympie electorate.
Location
Transport & Commute
Bus Services
- Gympie-Tin Can Bay — Gympie (connections to rail) 60-70 min
Commute to Brisbane CBD
🛣️ Very limited public transport; once-daily bus to Gympie on weekdays only. Car essential for most trips.
Small town centre walkable but car needed for most activities
Supermarkets Nearby
No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.
Schools
-
Schnapper Creek Road
Housing Costs 2021 Census
Demographics
Population Growth
Gender Distribution (Census 2021)
Income Comparison
Country of Birth 2021 Census
Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)
- 1. England 134
- 2. New Zealand 55
- 3. Germany 17
- 4. Philippines 15
- 5. Scotland 14
- 6. South Africa 12
- 7. United States 8
- 8. Fiji 5
- 9. Netherlands 5
- 10. Papua New Guinea 4
- 11. Wales 4
- 12. Zimbabwe 4
- 13. Japan 3
- 14. Taiwan 3
Ancestry 2021 Census
Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)