Boyne Island and Tannum Sands

Boyne Island and Tannum Sands

Tannum beach and wild cattle creek

A short drive south from Gladstone is the picturesque coastal communities of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands. Boyne Island and Tannum Sands residents have a relaxed coastal lifestyle centred on superb beaches, riverside walkways, parklands and recreational activities.

With a population of close to 10,000, these ‘twin’ communities are linked by a bridge across the beautiful Boyne River. Boyne Island offers a quality mix of residential, business, shopping, industry and environment where foreshore parks overlook boats, outrigger crews and fishing on the calm river waters.

The Island is also home to Australia’s largest Aluminium Smelter operated by Rio Tinto and employs 1,300 people to produce up to 558,000 tonnes of aluminium per year.

Population

Observations

  1. A median age in line with the region and State, which is slowly increasing.
  2. Slightly lower cultural diversity than Gladstone and significantly lower than the State.
  3. Higher proportion of couples with children than the region but lower than the State.
  4. Households have a higher income that the region and State with negligible change over the last five years.
  5. Higher number of households owned with a mortgage than the region and State which has decreased over the last 10 years.
  6. Slightly higher proportion of people attending university than the region but significantly lower than the State.

Compared to the Gladstone Region and Queensland, the towns of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands has:

Data focus Boyne Tannum Gladstone Region Queensland
2021 2016 2011 Change 2021- 2011 Change 2021- 2016 Change 2016- 2011 2021 2021
Median Age 39 36 35 4 years 3 years 1 year 38 38
Non English-speaking backgrounds 3.7% 4.1% 4% -0.3% -0.4% 0.1% 5% 12.6%
Couple Family with children 44.1% 50.4% 53.8% -18.0% -12.5% -6.3% 41.7% 55.4%
Couple Family without children 41.2% 36.7% 35.3% 16.7% 12.2% 3.9% 40.5% 28%
Average number of people per household 2.6 2.7 2.9 -10.3% -3.7% -6.8% 2.5 2.5
Household with a mortgage 39.6% 42.1% 44.5% -11.0% -5.9% -5.3% 37% 34.4%
Households renting 30.1% 29.9% 25.8% 16.6% 0.2% 4.1% 33.4% 33%
Median weekly household income $1,948 $1,947 $2,063 -$115
(-5.5%)
$1
(-0.05%)
-$116
(-5.6%)
$1,639 $1,675
Median monthly mortgage repayments $1,733 $2,058 $2,167 -$434
(-20.0%)
-$325
(-15.7%)
-$109
(-5.0%)
$1,600 $1,733
Median weekly rent (overall) $300 $200 $360 -$60
(-16.6%)
$100
(50.0%)
-$160
(-44.4%)
$275 $365
University attendance 7.8% 6.9% 5.4% 44.4% 13.0% 27.7% 7.2% 14.2%

Age Profile

In 2021 the communities of Boyne Tannum had a population of 10,059, which is an increase of 405 since 2011, with the largest increase taking place between 2021 and 2016 at 241 people. It is estimated that the population will increase by a further 3,090 people to 12,991 by 2041, with the Retirement (65-79) age cohort forecasted to experience the largest increase (REMPLAN population forecast).

In 2021 the median age for Boyne Island and Tannum Sands was 39, which is consistent with Gladstone Region median age of 38 and the Queensland median age of 38.

Since 2011 the median age of the Boyne Tannum community has increased from 35 to 39 years of age.

The Boyne Island and Tannum Sands communities are diverse across age groups with people living in the area until their senior years.

There is a general trend with a decrease in the community aged zero to four years old to 50-54 years old and an increase of those aged 55-85 years and older. The most notable decrease is those aged 35-44 years old, with a decrease of 266 people between 2021 and 2011. There are notable increases of 963 people across all age brackets between the ages of 55-79 years old.

This could indicate the coastal area of Boyne Tannum could be a popular retirement region.

In 2021 the age groups that differ most to the Gladstone Region are:

  • There has been an increase in older workers and retiree’s at Boyne Tannum – 50-59 years with an increase of 9.9 per cent (133 people) and empty nesters and retiree's increasing by 61.6 per cent (451 people) between 2011 and 2021.
  • The most significant increase is the Senior's population (70-84) with a 103.7 per cent increase (384 people).
  • There is generally a high proportion of people in these age brackets when compared the region.
  • Families are well represented in Boyne Tannum, however, there has been a decrease in babies and pre-schoolers between 2016 and 2021 of 11.9 per cent (84 people), the percentage of people in this bracket is still line with the region at 6.1 per cent and 6.4 per cent of the population.
  • There has been a decrease in parents and home builders, which has been steadily declining over the decade. In 2021, this population segment represented 2,711 people, a 10.4 per cent decline (316 people) since 2011. The age bracket is still comparable to the region at 26.9 per cent compared 26.6 per cent of the population.
  • The largest decrease in the Boyne Tannum area is of primary and secondary school aged people between 2011 and 2021 of 1,064 people, a decrease of 31.5 per cent. As a percentage of the population, this age group represents 23 per cent in Boyne Tannum which is less than the regional comparison of 28.8 per cent.

People returning from beach

There will continue to be demand for diverse services and activity opportunities to cater for all age groups in the community. This includes sport and recreation facilities, library services, community centres, education activities and programs, volunteer services, childcare and continued strong linkages with schools and various other services.

Whilst there has been a decrease in primary and secondary school children, the age group between 0-19 years represents almost 30 per cent of the Boyne Island Tannum Sands population. There will be a need for services to support primary and secondary school children, such as play spaces, sport and recreation infrastructure, arts and culture opportunities, and a range of childcare services.

Programming and infrastructure planning should also consider that families represent 56 per cent of the population.

It will be important to middle aged and ageing adults to remain healthy, active, valued and independent as they age.

There has also been a significant increase in the senior demographic, with 103 per cent growth over the decade. This data may indicate that residents in this coastal community are ageing in place, and consideration should be made for increased access to health services or retirement living precincts.

Boyne Tannum age profile over time

Boyne Island - Tannum Sands Gladstone Region Queensland
Age 2021 Pop % pop 2016 Pop % pop 2011 pop % pop % Change 2021 - 2011 % Change 2021 - 2016 % Change 2016 - 2011 2021 Pop % pop 2021 Pop % pop
Median age 39 N/A 36 N/A 35 N/A 4 years (11.4%) 3 years (8.3%) 1 year (2.8%) 38 N/A 38 N/A
0-4 years 618 6.1 702 7.1 685 7.1 -9.7% -11.9% 2.4% 4,049 6.4 292,452 5.7
5-9 years 780 7.8 813 8.2 812 8.4 -3.9% -4.0% 0.1% 4,686 7.4 329,311 6.4
10-14 years 836 8.3 897 9.1 812 8.4 2.9% -6.8% 10.4% 4,913 7.7 342,560 6.6
15-19 years 696 6.9 663 6.7 752 7.8 -7.4% 4.9% -11.8% 4,001 6.3 313,506 6.1
20-24 years 412 4.1 466 4.7 533 5.5 -22.7% -11.5% -12.5% 3,159 5 323,739 6.3
25-29 years 505 5 553 5.6 526 5.4 -3.9% -8.6% 5.1% 3,766 5.9 347,687 6.7
30-34 years 595 5.9 628 6.3 636 6.6 -6.4% -5.2% -1.2% 4,066 6.4 354,033 6.9
35-39 years 648 6.4 703 7.1 774 8 -16.2% -7.8% -9.1% 4,280 6.7 357,120 6.9
40-44 years 660 6.6 847 8.6 800 8.3 -17.5% -22.0% 5.8% 4,069 6.4 330,692 6.4
45-49 years 808 8 787 8 817 8.5 -1.1% 2.6% -3.6% 4,518 7.1 340,287 6.6
50-54 years 744 7.4 743 7.5 777 8 -4.2% 0.1% -4.3% 4,546 7.2 333,843 6.5
55-59 years 730 7.3 713 7.2 564 5.8 29.4% 2.3% 26.4% 4,524 7.1 316,378 6.1
60-64 years 695 6.9 473 4.8 452 4.7 53.7% 46.9% 4.6% 4,154 6.5 298,919 5.8
65-69 years 487 4.8 372 3.8 279 2.9 74.5% 30.9% 33.3% 3,190 5 264,515 5.1
70-74 years 402 4 235 2.4 178 1.8 125.8% 71.0% 32.0% 2,532 4 238,952 4.6
75-79 years 228 2.3 153 1.5 106 1.1 115.0% 49.0% 44.3% 1,507 2.4 168,385 3.3
80-84 years 124 1.2 72 0.7 86 0.9 44.1% 72.2% 16.2% 886 1.4 106,611 2.1
85 years and over 91 0.9 75 0.8 65 0.7 40.0% 21.3% 15.3% 679 1.1 97,140 1.9
TOTAL 10,059 9,895 9,654 63,525 5,156,130

source ABS 2021, 2016, 2011

Group Age Boyne Tannum Gladstone Region
2021 % pop 2016 % pop 2011 % pop % Change 2021- 2011 % Change 2021- 2016 % Change 2016- 2011 2021 % pop
Babies and pre-schoolers 0-4 yrs 618 6.1 702 7.10% 685 7.1 -9.7% -11.9% 2.4% 4,049 6.4%
Primary and secondary schoolers 5-19 yrs 2,312 23.0% 2,373 24.0% 3,376 24.6% -31.5% -2.5% -29.7% 13,600 28.8%
Tertiary education and independence 20-24 yrs 412 4.1% 466 4.7% 553 5.5% -25.4% -11.5% -15.7% 3,159 5.0%
Young workforce 25-29 yrs 505 5.0% 533 5.6% 526 5.4% -3.9% -5.2% 1.3% 3,766 5.9%
Parents and home builders 30-49yrs 2,711 26.9% 2,965 30.0% 3,027 31.3% -10.4% -8.5% -2.0% 16,933 26.6%
Older workers and retirees 50-59 yrs. 1,474 17.7% 1,456 14.7% 1,341 13.9% 9.9% 1.2% 8.5% 9,070 14.3%
Empty nesters and retirees 60-69 yrs 1,182 11.7% 845 8.5% 731 7.6% 61.6% 39.8% 15.5% 7,344 13.6%
Seniors 70-84 yrs 754 7.5% 460 4.6% 370 3.8% 103.7% 63.9% 24.3% 4,925 7.8%
Elderly aged 85+ 75 0.8% 75 0.8% 86 0.9% -12.7% 0.0 -12.7% 679 1.1%

Service group breakdown compared to the Region, source ABS 2022, 2016, 2011

Household Character

The Boyne Tannum community has diverse household types with the main groups being couples with children and couples without children.

family composition chart

There is a higher percentage of couple families with children in Boyne Tannum representing 44.1 per cent of the population in comparison to 41.7 per ent in the Gladstone Region, and slightly higher than the State 41.2 per cent.

One parent family represent 14.1 per cent of the community and has had a significant increase of 49.8 per cent (131 families) since the 2011 census. This sector remains lower than the region, with one parent families representing 16.6 per cent of the region.

People in a registered marriage make up 50.7 per cent (3,563 people) of Boyne Tannum Community in 2021, which is higher compared to the Gladstone Region at 43.6 per cent.

Across the decade there has been an increase in de facto marriages of 13.2 per cent, and a 21.4 per cent increase in couples not married.

In 2016, 53 percent of children aged four and five in the Boyne Island and Tannum Sands (SA2) were attending preschool.

Of the 53 per cent of children attending preschool in 2016, 73 per cent were attending for 15 hours or more.

Considerations:

  • With an increase of almost 50 per cent in single parent families, consideration should be given to timing of programming, and the availability of occasional and casual childcare.
  • A balance in program design should also be considered to accommodate for families with children, and couples without children.

Family composition

Boyne Island Tannum Sands Gladstone Region Queensland
2021 % pop 2016 % pop 2011 % pop % Change 2011 - 2021 % Change 2016 - 2021 % Change 2011 - 2016 2021 pop % pop 2021 pop % pop
Couple family without children 1,147 41.2% 982 36.7% 912 35.3% 25.7% 16.8% 7.6% 6,829 40.5% 551,069 40.3%
Couple family with children 1,228 44.1% 1,348 50.4% 1,389 53.8% -11.5% -8.9% -2.9% 7,021 41.7% 563,327 41.2%
One parent family 394 14.1% 321 12% 263 10.2% 49.8% 22.7% 22.0% 2,798 16.6% 124,174 9.1%
Other family 21 0.8% 23 0.9% 19 0.7% 10.5% -8.6% 21.0% 202 1.2% 46707 3.4%

source ABS 2022, 2016, 2011

Social Marital Status

Boyne Island Tannum Sands Gladstone Region
2021 % pop 2016 % pop 2011 % pop % Change 2011 - 2021 % Change 2016 - 2021 % Change 2011 - 2016 2021 % pop
Registered marriage 3,563 50.7% 3,556 54.2% 3,540 54.9% 0.6% -0.9% 0.4% 20,253 43.6%
De facto marriage 1,036 14.7% 923 14.1% 915 14.2% 13.2% 12.2% 0.8% 6,476 14.8%
Not married 2,426 34.5% 2,083 31.7% 1,997 31.0% 21.4% 16.4% 4.3% 16,998 38.8%

source ABS 2022, 2016, 2011

Children attending Preschool

Year 15 hours or moere Less than 15 hours
2016 114 41
2017 124 58
2018 116 49
2019 143 37

Source, Gladstone Region engaging in action Together Data Hub, 2022

Cultural Diversity

Places of birth Boyne Tannum

In 2021, 80 per cent of the Boyne Island and Tannum Sands population was born in Australia, compared to 79.6 per cent in the Gladstone Region.

A further 1.7 per cent were born overseas from other English-speaking countries including, Canada, England, Ireland New Zealand, South Africa, Scotland and United States of America.

Languages spoken

The community of Boyne Tannum includes 537 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, which is 5.3 per cent of the population. There has been a gradual increase in the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people in Boyne Tannum, representing 3.5 per cent (347 people) of the population in 2016 and 2.6 per cent (251) of the population 2011, an increase of 286 people over 10 years.

English is the main language spoken at home for 91per centof the community in Boyne Tannum compared, to 87.1per centin the Gladstone Region.2.7per centof households in the Boyne Tannum community speak another language other than English at home.

Religion

The main religious followings in the Boyne Island and Tannum Sands community are:

  • 47.9% - No religion
  • 16.2% - Catholic
  • 12.8% - Anglican
  • 4.6% - Uniting Church
  • 2.6% - Presbyterian and Reformed
  • 2.3% - Christianity
  • 1.5% - Pentecostal
  • 1.2% - Baptist
  • 0.8% - Lutheran
  • 0.6% - Jehovah's Witnesses
  • 0.6% - Buddhism
  • 0.3% - Islam

In addition to 49.7 per cent of the community stating they had no religion, a further 6.7 per cent did not respond.

This equates to 4,822 community members either with no religion or unknown and 4,402 who reported religious affiliation.

There has been an increase of 22.9 per cent of community members stating they had no religion between 2011 and 2021. In addition, 25 per cent stated they had no religion in 2011 compared to 32 per cent of community members in 2016.

Employment and Education

The main occupation categories for people aged 15 years and over in Boyne Tannum are:

  • 21.5% - Technicians and Trade Operators
  • 16.6% - Professionals
  • 11.7% - Machinery Operators
  • 11.6% - Community and personal service workers
  • 10.8% - Clerical and Administrative Workers
  • 10% - Labourers
  • 8.7% - Managers

Boyne Tannum employment over time

The most prominent occupation in the Boyne Island Tannum Sands area is Technicians and Trade Operators, with 21.5 per cent of residents employed in this category. This could be a result of the presence of Rio Tinto's Boyne Smelter in Boyne Island.

40 per cent of employed people in the Boyne Tannum community are employed by Boyne Smelters which is situated in Boyne Island.

Professionals and machinery operators are also prominently represented with 16.6 per cent and 11.7 per cent respectively.

Across the decade there have been several professions that have either significantly increased or decreased in the Boyne Island Tannum Sands area.

Of note, there has been an 87 per cent increase in residents working in Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing over the period of 2011 to 2021.

There has also been an 84 per cent increase in Artists and Recreation Services across the same period.

In the last five years, occupations such as Education and Training and Health Care and Social Assistance have also increased by 42 per cent in both categories.

There has been a significant decrease in Information Technology by 55 per cent, as well as 49 per cent decrease in Professional Scientific and Technical Services, which could be attributed to the end of a major construction period over the last five years.

Wholesale trade has also declined by almost fifty per cent, which may be a result of increased online shopping.

The number of people working full time has decreased by 8.5 per cent between 2011 and 2021, whilst there has been a consistent increase in part-time work by 20 per cent.

There has been a significant increase in residents working away, with a 35.3 per cent increase since 2016. There has also been an increase in residents not in the labour force, which could correlate with the increase in seniors ageing in place.

Hours worked 2021

There was a staggering increase of 175 per cent of unemployed residents between 2011 and 2016, potentially a result of declining employment opportunities during the LNG construction period.This percentage has decreased in the subsequent census period by 44.7 per cent representing just 4 per cent of the suburb's population.

The top five industries of employment have been the same in 2011 and 2021 with some shifts in the ranking order, four of the five industries are also ranked in top five during 2021.

The top five industries in 2016 and 2021 were; manufacturing, construction, retail trade, health care and social assistance and education and training. In 2011 the top five ranked industries were manufacturing, construction, retail trade, health care and social assistance and Professional, Scientific and Technical Services.

hours worked 2016

Hours worked can only be shown for 2021 and 2016 due this data not being captured in the 2011 Census.

There has been a three percent increase in the number of employees working 35 hours or more between 2016 and 2021, however, there has been a nine per cent reduction of employees working in excess of 45 hours a week. Subsequently, there has also been an increase of 12.5 per cent across the same period in part-time hours reflecting this type of employment as a popular trend in the Boyne Tannum community.

Boyne Tannum transport to work

Over 90 per cent of workers travel to their place of work by car, either as driver or passenger, which has stayed consistent over the decade. Transport to work via bus increased by 431 per cent in 2011 representing the transport preference during the construction of the three LNG plants on Curtis Island.

Considerations:

  • Over two third of the employed community work over 35 hours per week and therefore may need access to services either outside working hours or on weekends.
  • 40 per cent of the population is employed by Boyne Smelters. Opportunities may exist to partner with industry to support the community.
Industry 2021 Pop % pop 2016 Pop % pop 2011 pop % pop % Change 2011- 2021 % Change 2016- 2021 % Change 2011- 2016
Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing 30 0.6% 26 0.6% 16 0.3% 87.5% 15.3% 62.5%
Mining 196 4.1% 162 3.6% 165 3.4% 18.7% 20.9% -1.8%
Manufacturing 826 17.1% 799 17.9% 1,106 22.6% -25.3% 3.3% -27.7%
Electricity, Gas, Water and Waste Services 133 2.7% 121 2.7% 101 2.1% 31.6% 9.9% 19.8%
Construction 560 11.6% 502 11.2% 724 14.8% -22.6% 11.5% -30.6%
Wholesale Trade 52 1.1% 58 1.3% 101 2.1% -48.5% -10.3% -42.5%
Retail Trade 350 7.2% 402 9.0% 430 8.8% -18.6% -12.9% -6.5%
Accommodation and Food Services 333 6.9% 277 6.2% 242 4.9% 37.6% 20.2% 14.4%
Transport, Postal and Warehousing 312 6.5% 298 6.7% 240 4.9% 30.0% 4.6% 24.1%
Information Media and Telecommunications 8 0.2% 23 0.5% 18 0.4% -55.5% -62.2% 27.7%
Financial and Insurance Services 38 0.8% 57 1.3% 59 1.2% -35.5% -33.3% -3.3%
Rental, Hiring and Real Estate Services 64 1.3% 80 1.8% 104 2.1% -38.4% -20.0% -23.0%
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services 182 3.8% 242 5.4% 358 7.3% -49.1% -24.7% -32.4%
Administrative and Support Services 144 3.0% 129 2.9% 119 2.4% 21.0% 11.6% 8.4%
Public Administration and Safety 223 4.6% 182 4.1% 173 3.5% 28.9% 22.5% 5.2%
Education and Training 474 9.8% 423 9.5% 332 6.8% 42.7% 12.0% 27.4%
Health Care and Social Assistance 498 10.3% 383 8.6% 350 7.2% 42.2% 30.0% 9.4%
Arts and Recreation Services 35 0.0% 28 0.6% 19 0.4% 84.2% 25.0% 47.3%
Other Services 140 0.6% 142 3.2% 134 2.7% 4.4% -1.4% 5.9%
Inadequately described/Not stated 236 4.9% 144 3.2% 102 2.1% 131.3% 63.8% 41.1%

ABS Census Data, 2021, 2016, 2011

Socio-economics

The Boyne Island Tannum Sands community has a higher socio-economic profile in comparison to the Gladstone Region.

  • The median weekly household income is $1,948 compared to $1,693 for the Gladstone Region.
  • 31 per cent of households earn $3,000 or more per week compared to 19.8 per cent for the Gladstone Region
  • 6.4 per cent households earn less than $650 each week compared to 7.2 per cent for Gladstone Region, which is a decrease of 6.4 per cent compared to 2016.
  • 39.6 per cent of non-family households earn less than $650 each week compared to 47.0 per cent for Gladstone Region, which is a 1.3 per cent increase compared to 2016.

61.8 per cent of people aged 15 and over are in the labour force, which is slightly higher than 2016 data at 59.6 pe rcent, but less than 2011 with 66.6 per cent.

The unemployment rate for the Boyne Tannum community has fluctuated over time being 3.8 per cent (296 people) in 2021, 7.6 per cent (536 people) in 2016 and 2.7 per cent (195 people) in 2011, which could be attributed to the volume of employment opportunities throughout construction periods and ongoing operations.

The Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas (SEIFA) is an index of relative socio-economic disadvantage, which in 2016 suggests the community of Boyne Island and Tannum Sands is less disadvantaged with a score of 1014.

The SEIFA score for Gladstone Region in 2016 was 978. Across Australia’s local government areas, SEIFA scores range from 188 (most disadvantaged) to 1186 (least disadvantaged).

27.3 per cent of households are owned outright in Boyne Island Tannum Sands which is slightly lower than the Gladstone Region at 29.1 per cent.

There has been a steady increase of households owned outright across the decade, with almost 25 per cent between the two Census periods.This is slightly higher than the regional percentage of 21 per cent across the same period.The continued increase may correlate with a similar trend of increase in over 65 residents wishing to age in place.

Almost 40 per cent of households have a mortgage in Boyne Tannum, compared to 36 per cent for the Gladstone Region and

39.6 per cent of households have a mortgage in Boyne Tannum, compared to 36.5 per cent for Gladstone Region and 34.4 per cent for the State. There has been very little change in the percentage of mortgagees in the Boyne Island Tannum Sands area across the decade.

31.7 per cent of dwellings are rented in Boyne Island Tannum Sands compared to 33.3 per cent in the Gladstone Region. Whilst slightly lower than the region, there has been a 28 per cent increase in renters in the Boyne Tannum area.

There has been a 30.7 per cent increase in residents that have rented from a State Housing Authority between 2011 and 2021.In addition, there has been a 142 per cent increase in residents renting from Community Housing Providers.

The average mortgage repayment is $1,733 which is higher than the Gladstone Region by $133 but the same as the State. There has been a $434 reduction in average mortgage payments between 2021 and 2011 with the largest reduction being $325 between 2021 and 2016.

There is a general trend of monthly mortgage payments between $2,400 and $4,000 reducing over the last 10 years. Households paying $2,400-$2,999 reduced by 7.1 per cent (100), those paying $3,000- $3,999 reduced by 9.7 per cent (135).

There is a general increase of households paying between $0 -$2,399 over the same period. The most significant change is an 8.9 per cent increase (123) for those paying $1,400-$,1799 and those paying $1,000-$1,399 with a 7.4 per cent (100) increase.

The median rent for Boyne Tannum is $300 compared to $275 in the Gladstone Region and $365 in the State. The median rent in Boyne Tannum has fluctuated over time being, $300 in 2021, $200 in 2016 and $360 in 2011.The construction of the LNG industries on Curtis Island may have impacted on the high rental price in 2011.

Considerations:

Across the decade there has been an increase in home owners without a mortgage. This increase correlates with the increase in over 65 residents staying in the region until 85. Health services and programs supporting wellbeing should be considered for this area.

A large proportion of people living in Boyne Island Tannum Sands are relatively affluent and should have the financial capacity to pursue activities and use facilities and services. However, affordable activities should still be provided to support lower income households, older adults and students who are likely to earn lower incomes.

With the significant increase of retiree's ageing in place at Boyne Island and Tannum Sands, infrastructure planning could consider this locality for retirement living. With the nation's housing crisis affecting all areas, this strategy could free up housing stock for other purposes.

Department of Social Services Payments

Education, Employment & Young People:

Year - Quarter ABSTUDY (Non-living allowance) Austudy Job Seeker Payment Newstart Allowance Youth Allowance (other) Youth Allowance (Student and apprentice)
2019 Jan-Mar 13 10 - 369 65 20
2019 Apr-Jun 10 7 - 337 67 22
2019 Jul-Sept 7 7 - 326 47 24
2019 Oct-Dec 7 7 - 333 53 22
2020 Jan-Mar 9 7 360 - 64 20
2020 Apr-Jun 9 6 585 - 83 21
2020 Jul-Sept 9 5 552 - 65 24
2020 Oct-Dec 10 - 544 - 61 20
2021 Jan-Mar 5 - 477 - 57 21
2021 Apr-Jun 6 7 416 - 37 22
2021 Oct-Dec 8 - 377 - 35 13

Seniors

Year - Quarter Age Pension C'wealth Seniors Health Card Pensioner Concession Card
2019 Jan-Mar 739 121 1462
2019 Apr-Jun 745 120 1484
2019 Jul-Sept 736 118 1474
2019 Oct-Dec 742 117 1472
2020 Jan-Mar 751 122 1466
2020 Apr-Jun 755 129 1501
2020 Jul-Sept 769 135 1517
2020 Oct-Dec 783 133 1530
2021 Jan-Mar 804 139 1519
2021 Apr-Jun 808 147 1546
2021 Oct-Dec 806 146 1545

Boyne Smelter

Photo courtesy of Rio Tinto

Dwelling Types

Dwelling Structures

81.8 per cent dwellings are occupied in Boyne Island Tannum Sands, compared with 85 per cent in the Gladstone Region.

Since 2011 there has been a decrease of 10 per cent in the number of occupied dwellings.

Considerations:

Where there is medium and higher density housing there can be greater demand for open space, indoor recreation facilities, public places, entertainment opportunities and green infrastructure including appealing streetscapes.

Occupancy
2021 % total dwellings 2016 % total dwellings 2011 % total dwellings
Total occupied dwellings 81.8 83.9 90.9
Unoccupied private dwellings 10.8 16.2 9.1

Occupied DwellingsUnoccupied dwellings

Community Health and Caring

4.6 per cent of the community requires assistance with core activities. This represents 465 people.

The number of people requiring assistance has increased by 205 people in the ten-year duration between the 2011 and 2021 Census, representing an increase of 78.8 per cent. The need for assistance has seen a steady rise over the decade, with a sizeable increase of almost 50 per cent across the five-year period between 2016 and 2021.

In addition, the number of people that have 'not stated' a need for assistance has decreased by 14.9 per cent between 2011 and 2021.

Whilst there is a large representation of over 55 years that require assistance with core activities, there is also an identified need in young people, particularly in the 5-14 year age group.

The 5-14 year age group has seen a 38.5 per cent increase over the past five years, or an additional 22 young people in the period. A significant increase was also reported for those aged 55-85, with 187 more people requiring support with core activities than in 2011.

Woman using computer

There are 850 people providing unpaid assistance to a person with a disability, health condition or due to old age, which is an increase of 297 people from 2011. There are 25 (2.9 per cent) young people aged 15-19 providing unpaid support, 215 (25 per cent) people aged 45-54, and 55-64 with 187 people or 22 per cent. Those aged 35-44 make up 17.5 per cent of those that provide support which equates to 149 people.

The biggest increases between 2011 and 2021 were seen with those aged 45-54 years, with 94 more people providing unpaid support, followed by those aged 65-74, with 66 more people providing unpaid support.

Mental health conditions (including depression or anxiety) are the highest long-term health condition in the Boyne Island Tannum Sands region, with 833 people, or almost 10 per cent of the population. People identifying with this health condition are most likely to be in the 25-65 year age group, representing almost 70 per cent of the total. Young people are also reporting this long-term health condition with 17.2 per cent in the 0-25 year age group. Mental health is slightly higher from a regional perspective at 9.5 per cent.

Arthritis is most prevalent in the over 55 community and is consistent in both Boyne Tannum and across the Gladstone Region.

Asthma is experienced across the age profile, with 6.4 per cent of the Boyne Tannum community experiencing this long-term health issue. Rates are slightly higher across the region at 7.9 per cent.

Considerations:

  • Mental health continues to be the most prevalent long-term health condition across the region, and in Boyne Island Tannum Sands. 17.2 per cent of people with mental health conditions are aged between 0-25 years, and almost 70 per cent are aged between 25-65. Community Development programs should consider targeted programs for young people and the middle aged.
  • Almost 25 per cent of people requiring assistance with core activities are aged between 5-14 years. Consideration should be given when planning for parks and recreation, cycle paths, and youth programs.
2021 % 2016 % 2011 % % Change 2021- 2011 % Change 2021- 2016 % Change 2016- 2011
Has need for assistance 2021 465 4.6 311 3.1 260 2.7 78.8% 49.5% 19.6%
Does not have need for assistance 2021 9049 89.9 8966 90.6 8753 90.6 3.3% 0.9% 2.4%
Need for assistance not stated 2021 547 5.4 627 6.3 643 6.7 -14.9% -12.7% -2.4%
Age Group Has need for assistance Does not have need for assistance Need for assistance not stated Total
0-4 years 10 573 20 597
5-14 years 79 1392 74 1544
15-19 years 31 601 32 664
20-24 years 0 387 18 400
25-34 years 17 999 62 1074
35-44 years 31 1159 62 1249
45-54 years 36 1362 93 1489
55-64 years 80 1228 73 1390
65-74 years 81 722 67 868
75-84 years 59 254 30 344
85 years and over 33 35 21 88
Totals 456 8715 534 9715

Census 2021

Long term health conditions

TOP 5 Long-Term Health Conditions

Condition Boyne Island Tannum Sands
% of population
Gladstone Region
% of population
Mental Health (including anxiety and depression) 8.5% (833) 9.5% (6074)
Arthritis 8.4% (817) 8.4% (5392)
Any other long-term health condition 6.9% (672) 7.6% (4834)
Asthma 6.7% (652) 7.9% (5079)
Diabetes (excluding gestational diabetes) 3.8% (375) 4.6% (2953)

Volunteering

Volunteering is strong in the Boyne Tannum community with 1433 (18.3 per cent) people aged 15 years and over providing volunteer services. This compares to 16.2 per cent for the Gladstone Region.

While volunteerism in Boyne Tannum is strong, the number of volunteers has fluctuated. In 2011 there were 1,524 volunteers, which increased by 258 in 2016. This decreased by 349 in 2021. Overall, there has been a net decrease on volunteering of 91 volunteers.

There have been reductions in volunteer numbers for those aged 20-55 between 2011 and 2021. The largest decrease as been for those aged 35-44 at 8.9 per cent or 15 people. The largest decrease took place between 2021 and 2016 at 6.3 per cent.

EcoFest Volunteers

There were increases in volunteering rates for those aged 15-19 and those aged between 55 and 84. The largest of these increases was for people aged 65-74 at 7.9 per cent, representing 110 people.

With a population of just shy of 10,000, the Boyne Island Tannum Sands community has a large number of community groups supported by a strong volunteer base.

There are currently 10 active community groups in the area, eight community sporting groups and three large community-led destination events, the Boyne Tannum Hookup, Under the Trees and the monthly Beach Arts Music (BAM) Markets.

Tannum Sands Beach is patrolled by Surf Life Saving Queensland and has an active volunteer base supporting its weekend and school holiday roster.

Considerations:

  • With a high number of working families in the area, time to volunteer may be limited.
  • There is opportunity to strengthen the number of volunteers.
  • There is a strong presence of seniors residing in Boyne Tannum that could be welcomed into volunteer programs.

Community Sentiment

Council regularly undertakes a Community Satisfaction Survey to identify community sentiment with respect to its assets, services and programs.

Boyne Island Tannum Sands Gladstone Region LGA Benchmark
Overall satisfaction 50.3% 58.3% 55.0% 55.7%
ASSETS
(1 = very dissatisfied – 100= very satisfied)
Landfills and waste management facilities 73.3% 76.7% 72.9% 70.2%
Art Galleries and museums 68.2% 74.0% 72.7% 70.7%
Public toilets and amenities 65.7% 78.6% 69.1% 67.7%
Libraries 76.5% 82.9% 79.7% 78.0%
Airports and aerodromes 71.2% 71.8% 70.8% 70.1%
Parking facilities and street parking 67.7% 72.2% 66.0% 65.7%
Performing arts centres 68.0% 71.9% 69.1% 69.0%
Lighting and signage 67.8% 72.2% 68.3% 68.9%
Beaches and coastal areas 72.3% 75.8% 73.1% 73.7%
Landscapes and streetscapes 72.0% 72.3% 69.5% 70.1%
Halls and community centres 75.2% 72.4% 70.7% 72.2%
Stormwater and flood control system 70.9% 70.0% 65.8% 67.1%
Water and sewerage system 70.5% 74.4% 69.4% 71.5%
Boat ramps and jetties 73.0% 75.8% 68.8% 71.0%
Parks and open space 75.0% 79.0% 72.3% 75.0%
Footpaths and cycleways 74.8% 70.5% 65.4% 68.1%
Local roads and bridges 65.5% 67.3% 63.0% 65.8%
Sport and recreation facilities 70.8% 70.2% 69.1% 73.2%
Camping grounds and caravan parks 69.2% 70.0% 64.6% 68.9%
Swimming pools and aquatic centres 53.8% 62.1% 62.0% 71.5%
SERVICES
(1 = very dissatisfied – 100= very satisfied)
Waste services 77.9% 78.0% 74.5% 74.0%
Customer service 70.8% 75.1% 69.3% 69.7%
Consulting with the community 59.1% 60.0% 59.7% 61.1%
Building services 67.6% 65.3% 62.8% 64.8%
Animal management services 70.0% 62.4% 63.6% 66.1%
Informing the community of council decisions 58.4% 60.5% 61.7% 64.4%
Financial management 56.7% 59.5% 58.2% 61.1%
Environmental management 71.5% 65.5% 62.8% 66.4%
Making and enforcing local laws 71.0% 58.5% 60.9% 64.9%
Advocating on behalf of the community 52.8% 61.0% 59.9% 64.2%
Making decisions in the best interest of the community 58.3% 55.4% 57.3% 61.5%
Community services 53.6% 64.8% 64.4% 69.8%
Planning and development approval 57.4% 62.0% 57.6% 62.5%
Infrastructure and property services 70,8% 63.4% 59.5% 64.8%
Public health services 56.9% 62.8% 63.8% 71.0%
Biosecurity and environmental health 63.2% 61.1% 60.1% 66.8%
INITIATIVES
(1: Far too little – 100: Far too much)
Affordable housing development 55.0% 62.9% 52.5% 49.7%
Community safety and crime prevention 43.2% 45.3% 47.9% 47.5%
Creative arts development 65.0% 65.0% 59.3% 59.2%
Celebration of multiculturalism 63.8% 65.0% 60.9% 61.5%
Festivals and events 61.7% 59.5% 55.9% 56.8%
Celebration of First Nation culture 64.2% 65.2% 62.4% 63.3%
Business development and support 55.2% 61.2% 54.5% 55.4%
Heritage conservation 58.9% 58.0% 53.7% 55.1%
Tourism development and promotion 54.8% 57.8% 56.1% 57.3%
Placemaking to create lively public spaces 57.6% 58.9% 54.3% 55.9%
Opportunities for people of all abilities to participate in community life 58.8% 53.3% 52.3% 53.9%
Grants and support for sports clubs and community organisations 61.1% 62.4% 56.0% 57.9%
Environmental conservation and climate change action 59.1% 62.4% 55.0% 56.8%
Waste minimisation and recycling 50.0% 54.7% 52.2% 54.4%
Children and youth development 43.8% 53.3% 50.6% 53.6%
Childcare 47.4% 54.7% 54.1% 57.6%
Skill development and networking opportunity 51,1% 51.9% 50.9% 54.5%
Health promotion 47.6% 52.7% 52.3% 55.8%
Newcomer attraction and retention 47.8% 50.0% 51.8% 55.6%
Aged care and accommodation 38.0% 46.2% 41.3% 50.3%

Interacting With Council

Boyne Tannum Aquatic Recreation Centre

Within the Boyne Tannum community there is significant support for the development of an Aquatic Centre which was evident from Councils most recent community perception survey.

On 15 March 2022, Council, at its General Meeting adopted the Concept Design proposed for the Boyne Tannum Aquatic Recreation Centre (BTARC).

The Concept Design focuses on providing a facility that can meet both current and future aquatic recreation needs of the Boyne/Tannum community. The aquatic centre will be located on Council’s preferred site at Lot 900, Coronation Drive, Tannum Sands.

The Concept Design includes:

  • FINA standard, eight lane 50 metre outdoor heated pool with bulkhead.
  • Distinct recreational zone with a twin waterslide attraction.
  • Kiosk and general amenities, green space with shaded turf seating areas and spectator embankment.
  • All abilities access (pool ramp) and pool shading for sun safety and comfort.
  • Carparking and landscaping.

The next stage of the project development is to complete the design phase (detailed design) and obtain the relevant statutory approvals. On completion of this work, Council will proceed to consider its final investment decision on the project.

The Labor Commonwealth Government has made an election funding commitment of $15 million towards the development of this project.

Council's online platform Conversations is regularly updated with information about the project.

Customer Service Requests

The Boyne Tannum community engaged with Council on the following customer service requests from 1 December 2020 to 1 December 2021. During this period, 1,956 customer service requests were received.

Customer Service Request Type Amount
Request to change address / details 235
Leak on footpath or road 210
Repair / replacement of wheelie bin 209
Development services enquiries 204
Water meter enquiry / issue / reading 133
Animal noise nuisance 103
Operating plant alarms 83
Tree maintenance requests & land enquiries 81
Waste collection issues - missed collection 78
Defects to sewer infrastructure 77
Overgrown private property complaint 69
Animal registration or compliance 56
Drainage 52
Roaming dog or cat 50
Animal registration replacement tag 48
Collection of found roaming animal 46
Road signage 47
Building and plumbing compliance 46
Public waste services 45

Rating Arrears

The Boyne Tannum community's socio-economic position is slightly higher than that of the broader Gladstone Region.The median weekly household income for Boyne Tannum is $1,948 compared to $1,693 for the Gladstone Region.

Residential rate arrears are in the higher end of the scale, with 294 properties in arrears as at 30 October 2021, 0.8 per cent higher than 30 June 2022. The total rateable properties in Boyne Island and Tannum Sands is 4,339. On average, 6.8 per cent of households have outstanding rate payments.

On 30 June 2022, 2.7 per cent of rateable commercial properties were in arrears, meaning 11 ratepayers were in arrears. This increased to 22 rate payers as of 31 October 2022.

Community Assets

Education

Boyne Island Primary School
Prep-Year 6
412 enrolments (August. 2021)

Tannum Sands State School
Prep-Year 6
600 enrolments (August. 2021)

Tannum Sands State High School
Year 7-Year 12
893 students (August. 2021)

St Francis Catholic School
Prep-Year 6
212 students (August. 2021)

Clearview Christian College
Year 7-Year 12
Opening in 2023 with Year 7 and Year 8

Boyne Island Environmental Education Centre
Prep-Year 12
Day trips provided aligned with cirriculum

Community Facilities

Boyne Tannum Community Centre
Cnr Wyndham & Hayes Avenue, Boyne Island
Provides customer services for Gladstone Regional Council. The Centre has five rooms available for hire:-

  • Heron Room
  • Mount Larcom Room
  • Kroombit Room
  • Port Curtis Room
  • Castletower Building

Boyne Island Library
Cnr Wyndham & Hayes Avenue, Boyne Island
Provides public access computers, programs for adults and children, lending of books, DVDs, CDs, online resources.

Tannum Sands RSL Hall
Cnr Pacific Ave & Ocean Street
Community hall with dance floor, stage, basic kitchen, all access.

Ocean Breeze Gallery
27 Ocean Street
Community gallery operated by volunteers featuring art and craft from locals across the Gladstone Region. Workshops and social gatherings held to bring community together.

Child Care

C&K Community Kindergarten Tannum Sands
Kindergarten program
three to five years - 24 approved places

Goodstart Early Learning Tannum Sands
(6am-6pm)
Long day care, Kindergarten and Vacation Care
Six weeks to 12 years - 74 approved places

Milestones Early Learning Boyne Island
(6am - 6pm)
Long daycare and Kindergarten
Six weeks to five years - 80 approved places

Milestones Early Learning Riverstone Rise
(6am-6pm)
Long daycare and Kindergarten
Six weeks to five years -107 approved places

Tannum Sands Kindergarten
(8.30am-2.30pm)
Three years to five years - 25 approved places

St Francis Outside Hours Care Tannum Sands
(6am-6pm)
Before and after school care
Five years to 12 years - 60 approved places

Helping Hands Boyne Island
(6am-6pm)
Before and after school care
Five years to 12 years - 46 approved places

Helping Hands Tannum Sands
(6am-6pm)
Before and after school care and vacation care
Five years to 12 years - 75 approved places

Community Groups

  • Boyne Tannum Scout Group
  • Boyne Tannum Hook Up Association
  • Boyne Tannum SES
  • Boyne Tannum Men’s Shed
  • MyCity Church
  • QCWA – Tannum Sands
  • Lions Club Boyne Island
  • Boyne Tannum RSL Sub Branch
  • Boyne Tannum Arts Business & Community Inc
  • Turtleway Artscape
  • Rotary Club of Boyne Tannum
  • Boyne Smelter - Here for Gladstone

Sporting Groups

  • Tannum Sands Surf Life Saving Club
  • Tannum Boyne Seagulls Rugby League Football Club Inc
  • BITS Golf Club
  • BITS Saints AFL Club
  • Boyne Tannum Bullets Swim Club
  • Boyne Tannum Sharks Football Club
  • Curtis Coast Dolphins Netball Assoc Boyne Island
  • BITS Cricket Club

Community Led Events

  • Beach Arts Music (BAM) Markets
  • Under the Trees Music Festival
  • Boyne Tannum Hookup

Parks

Boyne Island:

  • Bray Park, Wyndham Road
  • Corimba Park, Riverstone Rise Boulavard
  • Stirling Park, Malpas Street
  • Wyndham Park, Alkina Crescent

Tannum Sands:

  • Canoe Point Wetlands, Canoe Point Road
  • Gullarn Ngheere Park, Bamba Street
  • Millennium Esplanade, Millennium Esplanade
  • Peters Play Park, Ocean Street

Sport and Recreation

  • Dennis Park Sporting Precinct
  • Turtle Way Cycle Path
  • Riverside Skateway
  • Tanyella Recreation Grounds
  • Tannum Sands Beach