Russell island Tourist Visitor Information Centre

Welcome to the Russell Island Tourist Visitor Information Centre, located in Redland Bay, Queensland, Australia. As soon as you arrive, you will be captivated by the stunning mosaic masterpiece that sets the perfect ambiance for your visit to Russell Island, the largest of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands. With its dimensions of 3km by 8km, it is separated from North Stradbroke Island by Canaipa Passage and stretches down towards Jumpinpin Bar, nestled between North and South Stradbroke Islands. The island also offers breathtaking views of the Gold Coast to the south.

Explore the Southern Moreton Bay Island Museum, take a dip in the swimming pool, or enjoy the facilities at the RSL and bowls clubs. Russell Island also boasts essential amenities such as a medical centre, supermarket, library, and numerous public parks waiting to be discovered.

Russell Island is renowned for its laid-back lifestyle, abundant fishing opportunities, and its deep connection with the natural environment. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the incredible variety of birdlife that calls the island home, making it a world-recognized sanctuary.

With a shopping centre housing an IGA supermarket and a wide range of services, Russell Island ensures that all your needs are met. If you're looking for accommodation, there is a diverse selection of holiday options available on the island. For more information, visit the Redlands Coast Visitor Information Centre.

Russell Island State School caters to the island community, while secondary students attend school on the mainland. Mainland bus services conveniently connect with island transport services, making it easy to explore the surrounding areas.

Like the other Southern Moreton Bay Islands, Russell Island has a rich indigenous history. Evidence suggests that Aboriginal people inhabited the island, with Canaipa Point serving as an important crossing point to Stradbroke Island.

In the late 1800s, John 'Tinker' Campbell became one of the island's major landowners, cultivating sugar and establishing a saltworks at Canaipa Point. Agriculture flourished on the island, with sugar and cotton crops dominating until the sale of agricultural land attracted other farmers. John Clowes, a ticket-of-leave convict, was an early landowner who collected shells for lime, which was used in brick-making. Aboriginal people operated 30 kilns on Russell Island, collecting coral for lime production in 1878.

Russell Island received its name in the 1840s, honoring Lord John Russell, the Secretary of State for the colonies. In the 20th century, fruit-growing and oystering became the island's primary industries. Today, Russell Island, along with the other Southern Moreton Bay Islands, is gaining popularity as a tourist destination and is home to residents of Redland City.

Russell Island falls under Division 5, represented by Cr Mark Edwards. The Redland City Council acknowledges and respects the Traditional and Historical Owners of the lands that encompass Redlands Coast.

Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Russell Island. Plan your visit today and let us guide you to an unforgettable experience on this remarkable island paradise.