It’s a REMOTE, remote island that has been dubbed “a fishermen’s paradise” and is for sale. But it also comes with warnings to its future owners.
Sweers island, located in the Gulf of Carpentaria off north Queensland is being offered at $3.95million. It includes a tourism and resort business that’s booming.
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It’s 8km by 2km stretch is considered an ideal fishing spot, and the resort that comes with it is part of this deal.
The resort has two homes for staff, cabins to rent for guests and two airstrips.
There is a beach, a restaurant with an open-air dining room, and countless bars.
Even in winter, temperatures rarely drop below 24C and they can reach as high as 36C in December.
However, the island is totally off-grid. It runs solely on gas and solar powered services.
The island is supplied with mainland goods and a barge regularly visits to take care of the trash.
Private Island Online estate agent Richard Vanhoff said that the biggest fish in the coral reef was what he liked best about the island.
He stated: “They have some of Australia’s biggest coral trout, and I believe that is a trophy fish for many fisherman. The ones they catch up there are huge.”
The island is not without its dangers. Sharks, crocodiles and other marine life have all been seen in the water around it.
The abundance of fish in the area is thought to provide a good diet for the sharks.
The price of the 30-hectare plot has dropped after owners Tex & Lyn Battle sold up.
This property can be used as a profitable business five months out of the year. The income generated will cover the winter quietness.
Owners of the resort are responsible for the care and management of this 1,100-hectare Island.
Tourist operators can lease the island for a minimal amount of money and without paying any rates.
Richard warns of hidden costs that can arise when you invest in your private island.
Council rates are charged on freehold islands even if they do not receive council services.
Most islands, however, are sold on a leasehold basis. This means that the owner has the right to hold the land between 25 and 75 years.
Rent can cost thousands.
The Australia Daily Mail quoted him as saying: “Even if you purchase the land, it is still necessary to pay a rent each year.” Most islanders reduce their costs by renting out their property.
A second island near you is on sale and costs less than the cost of a typical house.
Temple Island in Central Queensland is 3km away from Cape Palmerston National Park and has 123 acres.
The island has its 1100m airstrip and a 4-bedroom house on the highest point. It also boasts a brand new Range Rover, quad-bike, buggy off-road, and tractor.
This four-bedroom island home has three bedrooms upstair, and one downstairs. There is also a bathroom, kitchen and large veranda.
After a recent return to the market, this island has been listed at $1.75million.
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