Figures recently released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show Australia has recorded its largest annual population increase since record keeping began.
What is more interesting is that Queensland again recorded the highest increase in numbers. In fact, 7 of the 10 fastest-growing towns are on the Queensland coast.
At our grass roots level we still see - Lifestyle and Climate as the main factors charming people into buying property and relocating to Far North Queensland.
Therefore, it is no surprise that of Australia’s 70 largest cities, The Greater Cairns Region (which includes Port Douglas) is the 4th fastest growing in percentage terms.
This makes it easy to believe all the analysts and property gurus telling us that it is our rapidly growing population that will drive the next property increase cycle.
It is those who have a love affair with the inner city lifestyle and already own and live in a fabulous city, that are quick to acquire their second residence here in Far North Queensland.
The sophistication of Port Douglas with its alfresco café culture and epicurean delights appeals and offers a reprieve from the daily stresses that are associated with city living.
One of our more endearing clients (we will call him David) is a Professional Firefighter from “down South”.
David entered into the Port Douglas Property market just 2 years ago, he bought a modest residential townhouse, in the Four Mile area of Port Douglas which he holiday lets when he is not using it.
This year David has been back to Port Douglas 10 times so far, some visits are only for a weekend others as long as 10 days.
Although he dreams of the day he can permanently reside here, at the moment he just takes advantage of the many cheap airfares on a whim, to overdose on the delights that the Tropical North offers.
David is a truly satisfied client of Century 21 Port Douglas. Without fail he will drop in on his sojourn just to let us know that buying up here was the best thing he has ever done.
We recount a typical day in the life of this inner city life stylist, whilst relaxing in Port, it begins at 5am. Don’t cringe the sun is already up.
After an energizing brisk stroll on Four Mile Beach , ensuring equal time is spent walking along the beach in both directions to guarantee even tan a dip in the soothing salt waters of the Coral Sea is a must.
Then back home to a big “local market fresh” tropical fruit breakfast followed by a stroll to the Four Mile deli café for a top up latte and the daily newspapers.
Once all latte’d out, it’s only a short car ride to Mossman Gorge. A casual hike in the rainforest and a swim in pristine cool waters of the Gorge. Time permitting which it always does in Far North Queensland, a horse or camel ride along Wonga Beach is essential. Gosh I am starving it must be nearly lunch time.
Lunch can be at any of the gazillion watering holes from casual cafes like Café Ecco, or a pub meal on the verandahs of the Courthouse Hotel, or even a fine dining experience at Zinc ( where a trip to the bathroom to see the tropical fish swim by you while you are on the biz ).
The afternoon is spent on Four Mile Beach soaking up the rays. Then a mid afternoon bike ride on the hard sand of the beach, and around town stopping for another caffeine fix at either While-A-Way or Re-Hab cafes.
Beer o’clock rocks around at 4.30pm, and lead us to On The Inlet near the Marina Mirage for happy hour which includes beer or cocktails and a bucket of prawns.
The staff at On The Inlet try and entice George the Groper fish to make an appearance, a display not to be missed! Time permitting it is still happy hour at Rydges Sabaya Resort’s poolside cocktail bar. Where you can relax (with kids in toe) and catch up on the evening news and sport on huge plasma screen TV, while the kids enjoy the beautiful pool and Jacuzzi. P.s Watch out for the resident bandicoot wandering around.
Home for a quick swim and to freshen up (or a quick nano nap) prior to heading out for dinner.
Dinner options are endless however tonight David chooses Sassi at the new Balé Resort.
The only problem here is you can not possibly order everything on the menu.
The food here is that good!
Time for bed as a new day and a new adventure will dawn again at 5am in the tropical north paradise of Port Douglas.
