The remote outback town of Cooladdi in Queensland, Australia, has been listed for sale at a remarkably low price of $400,000, equivalent to approximately £209,920. This entire town, with a population of just two residents, includes key amenities such as a motel, a post office, and a pub, making it an intriguing investment opportunity for those seeking a dramatic lifestyle shift.
A Historic Hub Now Up for Grabs
Cooladdi, whose name is derived from an Indigenous word meaning 'black duck', was once a bustling railway hub with a population peaking at around 270 people. However, the decline of the local sheep industry and the cessation of train services led to a significant population shrinkage over the years. Located 500 miles from Brisbane, the town now stands as a quiet relic of its former self, yet it retains its own post office and unique postcode of 4479.
Current Inhabitants and Their Decision to Leave
The current residents, Jo Cornel and Carol Yarrow, have lived in Cooladdi since February 2023 but have decided to return to Brisbane. Jo aims to be closer to family, while Carol, who recently turned 70, is approaching retirement. In an interview with ABC, Carol expressed, "I've just turned 70 and finding I'm getting a bit old for it. Let's hope somebody else can get in and do the same thing." Despite the isolation, they highlight a vibrant community of people who travel up to 70km to visit the town, drawn by its pub and postal services.
Property Details and Market Comparisons
The sale includes the Foxtrap Roadhouse, a four-bedroom house, and essentially the keys to the town. For perspective, the price tag is comparable to that of a one-bedroom flat outside London in the UK. In Australia, the nearest major town, Charleville, with a population of 3,000, has an average house price of around $210,000, while the average flat in Sydney costs approximately $935,000, making Cooladdi's offering a stark contrast in the property market.
Community and Lifestyle Appeal
Although small, Cooladdi boasts a post office that handles mail runs and a pub that serves as a social hub for locals from the surrounding area. Carol told the Guardian, "The food and the pub are probably one of the main jobs; we also do the mail runs as part of the post office. I’ve always found the best thing is the local community … the people within around 70km who come through the property." This sense of community adds to the town's charm, despite its minimal resident count.
Estate Agent Insights and Future Potential
The sale is managed by Charleville Real Estate and agent Becky Jeisman, who emphasises that Cooladdi offers a "great change of pace" for potential buyers. She notes that if four people were to purchase the town, its population would effectively double, highlighting the potential for growth and revitalisation. This unique listing presents an opportunity for individuals or groups looking to escape urban life and embrace a simpler, community-focused existence in the Australian outback.
