The tiny outback Queensland town of Cooladdi, which has a population of just two and its own postcode, is on the market for $400,000 (£200,000). The sale includes the Foxtrap Roadhouse, a four-bedroom home, and the keys to the entire town.
Current residents Carol Yarrow and Jo Cornel took over the roadhouse in February 2023 with a three-year plan to revive the quiet stopover. Now, with Yarrow approaching retirement and Cornel wanting to return to Brisbane, they are ready to hand over the reins.
The new owners will take on multiple roles, including postie, publican, cook and shopkeeper. Yarrow, who has years of experience in remote hospitality, says the best part is the local community within about 70km who visit the property.
Cooladdi was once a bustling railway hub with a population of around 270, but declined as the sheep industry shrank and trains stopped. The school closed in 1974, and the Foxtrap Roadhouse was built by Beryl and Bob Fox to maintain a meeting point.
Real estate agent Becky Jeisman says the roadhouse would suit empty nesters, a young group, or a family seeking a lifestyle change. The population could double if a group of four buys it, as the population is based on the number of people living at the roadhouse.
For those tired of city life, Yarrow says Cooladdi offers a change of pace and laid-back lifestyle. The new owners will also inherit the role of maintaining camaraderie in the isolated community.
