My husband and I are thinking of making a huge move from Brisbane to Cairns ( kuranda area specifically) I'm after opinions of people in the area the good bad and ugly. What's the area like ?
What's the schools like?
What are jobs like?
We are aware that jobs are hard to come by but are willing to travel in the city for the work.
Do you live in Cairns ? What's it like?
Do you live in Cairns ? What's it like?
Posted in:
Relationships & Marriage, Things to do and see, Education
8 Replies
I lived in Kuranda for 20 years. Did my schooling there, worked in the town a few times and then drove down to Cairns for work. The town itself is ok - there tends to be certain locals that are well known for causing drama (small town mentality is alive!). Do you know where you will be living? Town? Myola? Speewah? Koah? The district college is ok - not many options for day care tho. There are a few big community events every year (Spring Fair, Easter celebrations). Lots to do and see on the tablelands - yet close enough to go to the beach. Grocery shopping is dear - only 1 food works in town, post office, 2 pubs, chemist/newsagents plus a servo and the tourist shops/markets. If you are going to be working in Cairns, the morning peak hour traffic is congested once you hit Smithfield. Flows much better southside. Bugger all work in Kuranda the place is a ghost town at 4pm. I liked the place because I kept to myself and appreciated the freedom we had growing up because the crime rate is so low in most areas. My parents still live their and I feel safe there. It's a big change from Brissie - you only live once. Good luck!
Both my kids are school age so daycare isn't required maybe just BSC & ASC.
Do you think it's reasonable to do a large weekly shop in town and only shop in Kuranda if urgent?
Is there after school activities available in the area?
Not sure what's available with BSC & ASC at Kuranda school. Caravonica state school is pretty awesome - That's right near Smithfield. I would definitely recommend doing weekly grocery shop at Coles or Woolies then using Foodworks as a top up option. Although I was just up there 2 days ago and saw a Home Icecream truck AND Woolies home delivery - nearly crashed my car from the surprise lol! I don't think there's a lot for kids to do - there is if they have awesome imaginations though!. I just read your replies on the FB post - if you are happy to drive long distances then why not? I lived just past the resort, worked in Cairns CBD and my kids went to DC at Trinity Park then Brinsmead. Got a bit ridiculous after 14 months so I moved down the hill. I would recommend finding secure employment though - it's cut throat up here and the unemployment rate is high. Goodluck!
Agree completely with the poster below. I've lived in Cairns for 16+ years. More work n Cairns than Kuranda, Depends what your skills are though... Expect to commute to at least Smithfield for work. You will need a reliable car as there is no public transport around Kuranda. Kuranda schools ok - the state school is a P-12 all in together. Secondary dept small so not a lot of options for subjects in high school - again might need to commute to Smithfield high. Think about working in Mareeba - same commute time as Cairns just in another direction.
I'm looking at customer service work currently work in telecommunications ?
I will have a look Mareeba for jobs thank you
Coffee Works in Mareeba is always looking for good workers. Great family company. Give them a call when you get to Kuranda. There is a good Catholic school in Mareeba that might suit if you're commuting in that direction.
l would suggest renting there 1st to see if you like it!
Your either a Kuranda person or not ....
Its a different lifestyle with such a wide range of people but typically known for a more alternative life....
l believe everywhere in and around Cairns is a great place to live! Try before you buy anywhere ?
We are really wanting land at least 1 acre and some what rural my husband is not into being in the city