Expert: Frank Denison - 4/5/2008

Question
Hi there, I am after a bit of information about Brisbane and the surrounding areas. I am in the process of organising a transfer through my work to one of our offices in Brisbane however I really want to live some where near the beach. I have heard Byron Bay is great but as far as I can gather is about two hours from Brisbane. Are there any areas surrounding Brisbane that are coastal and also near enough to drive into Brisbane every day for work?
Thanks for you help!

Answer
G'day Kim,
         The closest beach to Brisbane is at Bribie Island, and it would be about 50 mins drive to the city. It is not a classic beach though and most people who live there are retirees.

The next closest area on the Sunshine Coast is Caloundra and it is about 70 mins from the city. It has good beaches and has a mix of ages. The freeway from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast is being upgraded at present, and you can get delays when driving, which can add 15 mins to the trip to the city.

The Gold Coast's closest beach is at Southport, and it is about 70 mins from the city.

Travelling times blow out to either coast as soon as there is an accident on the freeways. The other option is to catch a train which has a regular service in the morning and afternoon, and hourly during the day.

I hope this helps.

Regards,
Frank