The quaint town of Cooladdi, recognized as the smallest in Australia with its own postcode, is now on the market. The sale includes a four-bedroom residence along with multiple business opportunities.
The town’s two inhabitants, Carol Yarrow and Jo Cornel, have decided to relocate after three years of serving the local community.
The new owner will need to adopt various roles, including that of a postal worker, publican, motel operator, restaurateur, and shopkeeper.
With both residents opting to sell, Cooladdi is presented as a unique real estate opportunity, allowing someone to acquire a whole Queensland town, complete with their home and a collection of businesses.
The asking price for the entire package is $400,000, which is significantly lower than the average unit price in Brisbane.
Located a nine-hour drive west of Brisbane, Cooladdi is indeed an outback locale. Despite its small population, the town attracts travelers and local graziers who frequently visit the Foxtrap Roadhouse.
Ms. Yarrow noted the diverse responsibilities that come with the territory, stating, “Today, I did the mail run down to Big Creek, which takes about five and a half hours mostly on gravel roads. Then I returned to assist with the shop, and tonight I will be serving food and drinks.”
She described the work as demanding yet emphasized the enjoyable lifestyle, saying, “On Friday nights, we chat with locals, and regulars often drop by on their travels from Quilpie to Charleville, allowing us to connect with many people.”
In addition to daily operations, the town hosts events like the annual equestrian and motorbike gymkhana, which made its comeback last year.
Ms. Yarrow pointed out that Cooladdi remains an official town, thanks to its designated postcode: 4479, despite its population decline from a peak of 270 during the 20th century when the railway station and school were operational.
After three years of maintaining the town, Ms. Yarrow believes it’s time for new ownership to rejuvenate Cooladdi. “I’ve just turned 70 and feel it’s becoming a bit much for me,” she remarked. “We were concerned about the town’s survival, but we managed to keep it vibrant. Hopefully, someone new will continue that effort.”
Becky Jeisman, principal agent at Charleville Real Estate, described Cooladdi as a rare opportunity for prospective buyers. “It has so much character and includes everything one might need,” she stated. “This little enterprise is profitable, and even during the quieter seasons, the mail run provides a steady income.”
Cooladdi falls under the jurisdiction of the Murweh Shire Council, with Charleville being the nearest major town, housing around 3,000 residents and where homes typically sell for about $210,000.
Murweh Shire Mayor Shaun “Zoro” Radnedge praised Cooladdi’s uniqueness, noting, “The number of people who stop, stay, and camp here is remarkable.” He also expressed his willingness to support any future owner who wishes to take on the informal title of mayor for the small town.
