News
2 August, 2025
Growing from Kabi Kabi land to laid-back living
NESTLED along the coast of the Moreton Bay is the relaxed town of Beachmere, boasting a rich and tranquil history, shaped by its proximity to the sea and nearby rivers.
The area was originally home to the Gubbi Gubbi (Kabi Kabi) people, the traditional custodians of the land, who lived sustainably along the coastline for thousands of years, fishing the tidal flats and gathering shellfish.
European settlement began in the mid-1800s, with the town’s name believed to be a combination of ‘beach’ and ‘mere’, an old English word for a lake or body of water.
Early settlers were drawn to Beachmere for farming and fishing. Dairy farming, in particular, became a major industry, with many families running small-scale operations.
Over the 20th century, Beachmere remained a quiet, rural coastal village, as its relative isolation kept it from rapid development.
The construction of better roads and bridges in the post-war years gradually improved access to nearby Caboolture and Brisbane, attracting retirees and holiday-makers looking for a peaceful lifestyle by the sea.
Today, Beachmere is known for its relaxed atmosphere, natural beauty, and strong sense of community.
While it has grown, it has retained much of its original character, with fishing, boating, and community markets remaining integral to everyday life.
With a mix of older homes, new developments, and scenic waterfronts, Beachmere continues to evolve, while honouring its past.
Did You Know?
Beachmere has no traffic lights, adding to its charm. Locals prefer the laid-back coastal living without urban fuss.
The town has one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the Moreton Bay region, a big drawcard for pet lovers.
Sir Charles Kingsford Smith, the famous aviator, is said to have flown over Beachmere regularly when testing aircraft during the 1920s.
Beachmere is a birdwatcher’s paradise with migratory shorebirds, herons, egrets, and even the occasional jabiru spotted in its wetlands.
The Beachmere Community Hall has stood in some form since the 1950s and remains a central hub for local events and markets.
There’s a hidden shipwreck in the mangroves near the river mouth, visible only at extreme low tides.
Anyone interested in learning more about the town’s history is invited to join local author Karen Wallwork, as she leads the Beachmere Heritage Walk on August 21 and 23 from 9am to 11am.
Registration essential at www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/SportRecreation/Healthy-And-Active-Lifestyles/Healthy-Active-Moreton
