Looking for tips/advice
My husband has been offered a great job in Cairns, we are from SA. A second option is Mackay. Having never been to either I'd be interested in people's opinions (we will go for a look before committing). We have 3 young boys (aged 2,6,8) and I do worry about schooling options and opportunities for them. Obviously it's a very popular holiday destination and we've holidayed in QLD many times, but is it so great when you're actually living there? Any opinions re: pros/cons, schooling, childcare, cost of living areas to avoid ect would be much appreciated.
Living in FNQ
Living in FNQ
Posted in:
Things to do and see, Kids, Money, FAQ
6 Replies
Cairns, you won't regret it. It's a bigger town, more schools, facilities, things to do. There are some very good private schools too. My son goes to the local public school in a not so great area and I don't know if we got lucky, but he is in grade four and have had no problems and he is thriving academically (some of his naplan results were above the top band and all results well above national average). It is a hugely supportive, inclusive school. Having said that, many pick the private schools in my area. Housing is pretty affordable too.
I adore cairns. Take it over mackay in a heartbeat. Only issue I had was its so far away from everything, but theres plenty going on up there & lots to explore & you can always take weekends away.
I have lived in Cairns for seven years and stay in Mackay regularly when passing through on the way south. Cairns has a bigger population by about 55,000 people so consider whether you prefer a larger, more urban area or a smaller town feel. I cannot speak for Mackay in regards to Schools etc. I can say Cairns has good variety of schools and child care. There's a thriving Cafe culture, beautiful parks and beaches, family orientated activities and wonderful food and craft markets, most of which are free or budget friendly. I would say if you're a family on a budget and you like to get away for the occasional weekend, go camping, throw the kids in the car and go exploring for the day or plan to have family and friends come and visit then Cairns is probably a better choice. With the Daintree, Port Douglas, the Tablelands and Mission Beach all within a couple of hours drive at most, not to mention the GBR, you will always have plenty of choice available to you. To be fair Mackay has Eungella NP, Cape Hillsborough, access to a couple of the GBR Islands and some sweet little beachside towns also within a reasonable distance.
Consider also the geography and weather. Cairns is sub tropical and has a wet and dry season. The Summer is long, hot and humid which might be a shock coming from SA. When the rains come during those hot months it's a wonderful relief. As a result the surrounds are lush and green. Mackay has vaguely more semblance of seasons and the Winter temps will be a degree or two cooler than Cairns but still nothing like you're used to down South. The surrounding area is drier and scrubbier.
My favourite things about Mackay are the nostalgic feel of the CBD and it's wide, open beaches typical of the Central Queensland area. I can't say I would want to live there though, of course that's a personal preference. I think when you visit each place you'll know fairly quickly which is more suitable to your tastes and needs. Good luck.
Cairns hands down!!!! Grew up here then moved to Mackay 7 years ago for 3 years and back home for 4 now.
Sooo much to do in Cairns and within a 2 hour drive for day trips on weekends!! You won't regret it!! Beautiful scenery, reasonably stable economy, beaches are a lovely place to live and good schools in most areas.
Mackay is a mining town and there really isn't as many fun things for families to do down there. House prices fluctuate depending on the mines as well so you either get a great bargain or pay through the nose. We made some lovely friends there but people come and go depending on jobs too.
If you have a look at mackays local paper over the last year. Its not a place you want to move to. Mackay is a town full of ice due to corrupt cops. Roberries. Dogs being killed.
Wow Mackay really isn't that bad! I have lived here nearly 20 years and am raising my kids here and I can't imagine moving to a bigger town/city. There are so many schools to choose from. Lots of sporting clubs.
Have you considered the weather in Cairns?! Honestly it is the number 1 reason I would not move that far north.