History of Karragarra Island in Southern Moreton Bay Queensland, Australia
Karragarra Island has also retained its indigenous name, although it was known as Rabbit Island in the 1870s. This name was apt as rabbits, an introduced species, were cultivated as a food source for many years.
The island also has an association with Tim Shea of Macleay Island. Colonial surveyor Robert Dixon, who named Macleay Island in 1839, noted that Macleay and Karragarra were both called Tim Shea's Island, so it appears that Shea spent some time on Karragarra Island.
By 1859 the Moreton Bay Oyster Co had built an 8-acre depot for oyster leases on the western side and over the next few decades oystermen were the main island residents.
In 1889 the northern part was subdivided, with most of the island held by the Noyes farming family by the early 20th century. The Moreton Bay Oyster Co retained its lease on the western section.
During the 1930s Karragarra Island was a popular spot for Brisbane-based Hayles Cruises, which offered well patronised day trips around Moreton Bay. Visitors to Karragarra Island had the added benefit of being able ro buy local produce direct from farms.
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Rowney's Point - North West Karragarra Island
This was the main oyster camp for the Moreton Bay Oyster Co from about 1860 to 1910. This site was also used as a crossover point between Karragarra and Macleay Islands by the Aboriginal people.
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Noyes' farmhouse The Esplanade
This property has a connection with the Willes family of Russell Island. John and Catherine Willes' youngest daughter Edith, married Dick (Robert) Scott in 1903; Dick is believed to have built the house on his family land before he married.
About 1908 the Noyes family acquired most of the island's allotments. Fred Noyes bought Scott's house and land and farmed there for many years. The house has been known as Noyes' farmhouse ever since. It is one of few remaining original farmhouses.
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The Brook brothers on the Karragarra jetty 1920s. Courtesy Peggy Saunders and RCC Local History Collection