The local’s guide to Bribie Island

When you visit somewhere on holidays, you only ever really get a chance to scratch the surface. It isn’t until you’re a local who lives there full-time that you get to know a place inside and out. That’s especially true for Bribie Island. It has plenty to lure in holiday-goers, from its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe. But as a resident, you will fall in love with Bribie Island for those same reasons, and then some! As you settle into your new 4-bedroom Mater prize home, switch gears from tourist to local with these insider secrets on the best places to go on Bribie Island.

Be(ach) in the know

Where the tourists go: Woorim Beach is popular with weekenders because it is patrolled in summer, plus, it has restaurants (and ice cream!) within an easy stroll so you can spend the entire day there without needing to jump in the car.

Where the locals go: The white-sand stretch of Woorim Beach is loved by locals too, but when it comes to getting away from the crowds and enjoying a peaceful walk on the beach, head to Red Beach. It’s dog-friendly and off-the-beaten track so expect to see familiar Bribie local faces living their best life here.

Fisherman’s friend

Where the tourists go: By boat or right off the shore, the fishing at Pumicestone Passage doesn’t disappoint. The fish are plentiful here, including bream, tailor, and jewfish. Just make sure you’re aware of the fishing zones within the area.

Where the locals go: Expect fishing to become one of your favourite ways to escape any stress in your life when you call Bribie Island home (although truth be told, you won’t have much to stress about when you win our prize home lottery). The secret to success is knowing where to fish depending on the season and what you’re in the mood for. Feast on freshly caught bream, whiting and flathead at Gallaghers Gutter near Gallaghers Campground. Or snag some mud crabs for dinner at the Poverty Creek Campground. It’s a lucky dip of fish varieties at Bongaree Jetty, including mulloway, juvenile snapper, cod, parrot and Moses perch. In winter, make your way to Red Beach for whiting.

Peace and paddle

Where the tourists go: Pumicestone Passage is not only picturesque, its calm waters are perfect for taking a kayak for a paddle.

Where the locals go: Bribie Island is home to four lagoons, which are surrounded by stunning scenery. Norfolk Lagoon is popular with the locals and is located north of Woorim Beach. Lined with lush greenery, the glass-like surface is the perfect place to take your two stand up paddle boards (included in the home lottery) for a spin.

Food for thought

Where the tourists go: The best way to finish the day after lazing on Bribie’s beautiful beaches is to stroll mere metres from the sand to grab some fish and chips. Depending on where you’ve spent your day, two favourite spots include Pigface Seafood near Woorim Beach and Golden Prawn near Bongaree Beach.

Where the locals go: Chances are fish and chips will become a regular staple in your weekly diet (hint: Scoopy’s at Bongaree Beach is a local hotspot), but when it comes to dining out, you’ll find your neighbours at The Deck Bistro. Practically in the backyard of our latest Mater Prize Home lottery No. 300, which backs onto the Pacific Harbour Golf & Country Club, the bistro has a stunning alfresco deck that overlooks the golf course and serves up modern cuisine starring fresh, seasonal and locally sourced produce.

Ready to live the local life on Bribie Island? Buy your tickets today to win this Mater Prize Home lottery and enjoy the peace and serenity 24-7. Plus, every ticket purchased helps support the vital patient care and medical research at Mater in Queensland.