The Australian town of Quilpie, specifically the remote settlement of Quilpie known as Cooladdi, is currently listed for sale at 400,000 Australian dollars (approximately 243,000 euros), according to Euronews. The property includes the Foxtrap Road House, which serves as the town’s commercial hub, effectively granting the buyer ownership of the settlement’s infrastructure and its status as a functional township.
Why Is an Entire Town for Sale?
Current owners Carol Yarrow and Joe Cornell are selling the property to enter retirement, as reported by Euronews. The duo purchased the Foxtrap Road House in 2023. Because the town’s official population count is tied directly to the ownership of this specific commercial complex, the sale represents a rare opportunity for a buyer to acquire a town with only two permanent residents. If a group of four people were to purchase the property together, the town’s official population would immediately double.
Cooladdi was once a bustling railway hub. The town’s decline began in 1967 when rail services ceased and the local sheep farming industry faltered, leading to a steady migration of residents toward larger towns like Charleville.
What Are the Responsibilities of the New Owner?
Purchasing Cooladdi involves assuming multiple roles essential to the settlement’s survival, according to broker Becky Jaisman of Charleville Real Estate. The owner must act as the unofficial mayor, postmaster, shopkeeper, cook, motel receptionist, and pub manager. Carol Yarrow noted that food service and pub operations are primary duties, alongside managing the local postal deliveries that remain a vital function of the business.
Is There a Market for Remote Townships?
Despite its isolation, approximately 800 kilometers from Brisbane, the town maintains steady foot traffic. The four-star restaurant and roadside complex draw visitors from a 70-kilometer radius, including residents of nearby Charleville, according to Yarrow. The demographic consists largely of former residents or their descendants returning to visit historical family sites. Yarrow describes the community as “tight-knit” and “unpretentious,” suggesting the property appeals to those seeking an alternative lifestyle rather than a standard real estate investment.
Comparison: Standard Real Estate vs. Town Ownership
| Feature | Standard Home Purchase | Cooladdi Purchase |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Often exceeds €243,000 in major EU cities | ~€243,000 (AUD 400,000) |
| Responsibility | Private residence maintenance | Commercial & civic management |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people live in Cooladdi?
There are currently two permanent residents in the town, according to reports from Euronews.
What does the purchase price include?
The 400,000 AUD price tag includes the Foxtrap Road House, which consists of a motel, restaurant, pub, and shop.
Who is managing the sale?
The property is being offered by broker Becky Jaisman of Charleville Real Estate.
Before considering the purchase of a remote settlement, research local government zoning laws and utility infrastructure requirements, as these often differ significantly from suburban real estate regulations.
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