Complete Travel Guide to Bongaree, Australia

Bongaree Bongaree is a suburb of Bribie Island in the City of Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia. It is located on the western side of Bribie Island, adjacent to the Pumicestone Passage. In the 2021 census, Bongaree had a population of 8,162 people. Positioned at coordinates -27.08367°N, 153.15942°E, Bongaree occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Bongaree place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 6.0 meters above sea level, Bongaree benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Bongaree creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 8162 residents, Bongaree maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Bongaree represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Bongaree reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Australia, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Queensland province, Bongaree contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Australia's regional character. The role of Bongaree in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Bongaree discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Australia while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Bongaree

History Sketch of Bungaree The suburb is named after the Aboriginal explorer Bungaree who accompanied Matthew Flinders on a number of his voyages of exploration of the Australian coastline In 1891, a school opened at the Bribie Island Aboriginal Mission.

A provisional school opened in 1908 but closed in 1909 In 1923, first Methodist church services were held under a gum tree at the site of the current bowls club In 1924 land was purchased in Banya Street and in 1929 a church building from Enoggera was relocated to the site.

The church was officially opened on Saturday 27 December 1930 By the mid 1970s the church was becoming too small for the congregation and land was purchased in Webster Street On 27 July 1986 the new Bribie Island Unting Church in Webster Street was officially opened.

Bribie Island Provisional School opened on 4 February 1924 On 16 Feb 1925 it became Bribie Island State School In April 1927, Anglican residents of Bribie Island decided to build a church in honour of St Peter the fisherman On Sunday 7 October 1928 Dean Batty performed the stump capping ceremony.

On Thursday 27 December 1928 the church was dedicated by Archbishop Gerald Sharp In 1974 the church was re- positioned and renovated and was re-dedicated on 5 May 1974 by Archbishop Felix Arnott By 1989 it was decided that the growing congregation needed a new larger church building.

The new church of St Peter Apostle & Martyr was dedicated on 24 May 2008 by Archbishop Phillip Aspinall and consecrated by him on 5 November 2016 In 1947, three former Army huts, each 40 by 20 feet (12 1 m), were donated by Charles Coward and were dragged 18 miles (29 km) from the north of Bribie Island across bogs and creeks to a hill on Bongaree about 300 yards (270 m) from the jetty to establish a Catholic church with a hall and a priest's residence.

The journey took four weeks and involved seven men with winches, trucks and semi-trailers Coward's son Flying Officer Charles G Coward was killed on active service in the Royal Australian Air Force on 23 November 1943 aged 21 years Before leaving Australia, Coward's son had said "If anything happens to me, Dad, buy me a church".

On Thursday 1 January 1948, the church was officially opened by Archbishop James Duhig A statue of St Michael, the warrior saint, was erected over the sanctuary to commemorate the deaths of Flying Officer Coward and his friend Flight-Lieutenant Virgil Paul Brennan who died on active service on 13 June 1943 aged 23 years.

SS Koopa docked at Bongaree Jetty, 1911-1930 The Bribie Bridge was constructed from 1961 to 1963 and was officially opened on 19 October 1963 by Queensland Premier Frank Nicklin The bridge was a toll bridge from its opening in 1963 until 1975 The toll for crossing was 5 shillings.

The Bribie Island library opened at Bongaree in 1976 with a major refurbishment in 2016 The foundation stone of Bribie Island Uniting Church was laid on Sunday 4 May 1986 by Raymond F.

The historical trajectory of Bongaree demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Bongaree reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Bongaree remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Creek at Bongaree, 2022 Bongaree is on the south-western corner of Bribie Island and sits at the northern end of Moreton Bay. The Bribie Island Bridge links the most north- westerly point of Bongaree (27°04′06″S 153°08′53″E / 27. 1480 (Bribie Bridge)) across the Pumicestone Passage to Sandstone Point on the mainland and is the only bridge to a Moreton Bay Island. Lagoon at Buckleys Hole Conservation Park, 2022 The southern part of the locality is within the Buckleys Hole Conservation Park (27°05′36″S 153°09′51″E / 27. 16405 (Buckleys Hole Conservation Park)). The park is approx 88 hectares (220 acres) with a variety of landscapes, including a freshwater lagoon, awoodland, an open forest and a beach. It is popular with bushwalkers and anglers. Sweedman, David (16 May 2019). "History - The STORY of our BRIDGE". _The Bribie Islander_. Archived from the original on 22 September 2020. Retrieved 22 September 2020. "Buckleys Hole Conservation Park – conservation park in the Moreton Bay Region (entry 39392)". _Queensland Place Names_. Queensland Government. Retrieved 30 December 2022. "Buckleys Hole Conservation Park". _Tourism & Events Queensland_. Queensland Government. Retrieved 30 December 2022.

The topographic characteristics of Bongaree result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Bongaree region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Bongaree area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Bongaree has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Bongaree demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Bongaree create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

The climatic regime of Bongaree reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Bongaree create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Bongaree determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Bongaree create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Bongaree demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Bongaree include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Demographics In the 2011 census, the suburb recorded a population of 6,524 people, with a median age of 62 years. The demographic composition of Bongaree reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. In the 2016 census, Bongaree has a population of 6,947 people. The demographic composition of Bongaree reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. In the 2021 census, Bongaree had a population of 8,162 people. The demographic composition of Bongaree reflects historical migration patterns and cultural exchanges that continue to enrich community life. Australian Bureau of Statistics (31 October 2012). “Bongaree (State Suburb)”. 2011 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 29 December 2015. Australian Bureau of Statistics (27 June 2017). “Bongaree (State Suburb)”. 2016 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 18 April 2018. Australian Bureau of Statistics (28 June 2022). “Bongaree (SAL)”. 2021 Census QuickStats. Retrieved 28 February 2023.

The cultural landscape of Bongaree represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Bongaree reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Bongaree continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Bongaree provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Bongaree demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Bongaree provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

The economic structure of Bongaree reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Bongaree often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Bongaree serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Bongaree demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Bongaree has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Bongaree focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Bongaree reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Australia. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Bongaree.

Regional connectivity from Bongaree provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Educational Institutions and Learning Opportunities

Education Bribie Island State School is a government primary (Prep-6) school for boys and girls at 31-63 First Avenue (27°05′00″S 153°09′42″E / 27.0832°S 153.1618°E / -27.0832; 153.1618 (Bribie Island State School)). In 2018, the school had an enrolment of 647 students with 43 teachers (39 full- time equivalent) and 30 non-teaching staff (22 full-time equivalent). It includes a special education program. Bribie Island State High School is a government secondary (7-12) school for boys and girls at 65-101 First Avenue (27°04′58″S 153°09′58″E / 27.0829°S 153.1660°E / -27.0829; 153.1660 (Bribie Island State High School)). In 2018, the school had an enrolment of 1,189 students with 97 teachers (93 full- time equivalent) and 39 non-teaching staff (34 full-time equivalent). It includes a special education program. 1. ^ a b c d “State and non-state school details”. Queensland Government. 9 July 2018. Archived from the original on 21 November 2018. Retrieved 21 November 2018. 2. “Bribie Island State School”. Bribie Island State School. 29 November 2020. Retrieved 30 December 2022. 3. ^ a b “ACARA School Profile 2018”. Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority. Archived from the original on 27 August 2020. Retrieved 28 January 2020. 4. “Bribie Island State High School”. Archived from the original on 18 May 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2018. 5. “Bribie Island SHS - Special Education Program”. Archived from the original on 18 May 2020. Retrieved 21 November 2018.

Educational institutions in Bongaree serve as important centers of learning and cultural preservation that contribute to community development while maintaining connections to traditional knowledge systems and contemporary educational standards.

Planning Your Visit to Bongaree

Successful visits to Bongaree require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Bongaree often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Bongaree include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Bongaree extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.