Bucasia, Queensland facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Bucasia Mackay, Queensland
Bucasia Location in Queensland
Population	4,915 (2021 census)
• Density	468.1/km2 (1,212/sq mi)
Postcode(s)	4750
Area	10.5 km2 (4.1 sq mi)
Time zone	AEST (UTC+10:00)
Location	14.9 km (9 mi) N of Mackay CBD 391 km (243 mi) SE of Townsville 968 km (601 mi) NNW of Brisbane
LGA(s)	Mackay Region
State electorate(s)	Whitsunday
Federal Division(s)	Dawson
Localities around Bucasia: Habana Shoal Point Coral Sea Habana Bucasia Coral Sea Nindaroo Rural View Eimeo

Bucasia is a lovely coastal town and suburb near Mackay in the Mackay Region, Queensland, Australia. It's known for its beautiful beach and relaxed lifestyle. In 2021, about 4,915 people lived in Bucasia. It was even named one of Queensland's most affordable beachside suburbs in 2024!

What is Bucasia Like?

Bucasia is located on the northern coast of Mackay. Its eastern side is a long coastline. Eimeo Creek forms its south-eastern edge. Most homes are built along the sandy beach. Another group of houses is found along the road leading to Mackay.

Much of the area is used for farming. Farmers here grow sugarcane and tropical fruits. Some parts of Bucasia, especially near the creeks, are natural swampy wetlands.

The Beach and Wildlife

Bucasia Beach faces north, offering great views of the Cumberland Islands. It's a popular spot because it's protected from strong winds. This makes it one of Mackay's favourite beaches.

The beach is also a special place for wildlife. It's a nesting site for the flatback turtle. On average, about 16 turtle nests are found here each year. Just offshore, you'll find Sunset Bay.

A Look Back in Time: Bucasia's History

Father Pierre-Marie (Paul) Bucas

Holiday-makers enjoying Bucasia Beach in 1931

Bucasia was first called Marara in 1874. Later, it was renamed Seaview. But in 1938, there were too many places named Seaview. So, it got its current name, Bucasia. It was named after Father Pierre-Marie (Paul) Bucas. He was the first Roman Catholic priest in Mackay, originally from France.

Father Bucas and the Orphanage

Starting in 1874, Father Bucas bought a large area of land in what is now Bucasia. He wanted to create a community and an orphanage for children who needed a home. The St Joseph's orphanage was first run by the Sisters of St Joseph. Later, the Sisters of Mercy took over.

In 1884, there were worries about health issues in the area. Because of this, the children from the orphanage were moved in 1885. They went to the Meteor Park orphanage near Rockhampton. A swamp in western Bucasia is still known as Orphanage Swamp today.

From Holidays to Homes

Over the years, Bucasia became a popular place for holidays. People would visit for its beautiful beach. Now, it has grown into a permanent residential area where many families live.

In 1985, Bucasia State School opened its doors. This was a big step for the community. In 1988, a monument was put up at Seaview Park. It remembers Father Bucas and his important work with the orphanage.

In 2008, a new waste water treatment plant was built in Bucasia. It helps keep the northern suburbs clean and healthy. In 2015, some trees were illegally cut down along the foreshore. These trees are important for protecting the beach and providing homes for wildlife.

Education in Bucasia

Bucasia has its own primary school.

Bucasia State School

Bucasia State School is a government primary school for students from Prep to Year 6. It's located at 76 Kemp Street. In 2018, the school had 393 students. It's a great place for younger kids to learn and grow.

There isn't a secondary school right in Bucasia. Older students usually go to Mackay Northern Beaches State High School. This school is in the nearby suburb of Rural View, just to the south.

Community Amenities

Bucasia offers several facilities for its residents.

Library Services

The Mackay Regional Council provides a mobile library service. It visits Bucasia every two weeks. You can find it on the Esplanade near Steen Avenue. It's a great way to borrow books and other resources.

Parks and Green Spaces

Bucasia has many parks where you can play and relax. Some of these include:

• Admiralty Way
• Bezzina Court Park
• Bezzina Court Reserve Park
• Dolphins Park
• Fisher Street Park
• Griffin Avenue Park
• Hennessy Street Park
• Michelle Cresent Park
• Royal Sands Park

These parks offer places for families and friends to enjoy the outdoors.