Idalia, Queensland facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Idalia Townsville, Queensland
Ross River Meatworks Chimney, 2009
Idalia Location in Queensland
Population	4,563 (2021 census)
• Density	1,304/km2 (3,380/sq mi)
Postcode(s)	4811
Area	3.5 km2 (1.4 sq mi)
Time zone	AEST (UTC+10:00)
Location	5.2 km (3 mi) S of Townsville CBD 355 km (221 mi) SSE of Cairns 1,328 km (825 mi) NNW of Brisbane
LGA(s)	City of Townsville
State electorate(s)	Mundingburra
Federal Division(s)	Herbert
Suburbs around Idalia: Rosslea Oonoonba Oonoonba Annandale Idalia Oonoonba Annandale Wulguru Cluden

Idalia is a suburb located in the southern part of Townsville, Queensland, Australia. It is a growing area with a population of 4,563 people, according to the 2021 census.

Exploring Idalia's Location

Idalia is surrounded by several other suburbs. To the north-west, you'll find the Ross River. The North Coast railway line forms its eastern border.

Major roads like the Bruce Highway run along its southern edge. The Townsville Connection Road is on the western side, and South Townsville Road is on the eastern side.

Lakes and Waterways

Idalia has three special saltwater lakes. These lakes were created as part of the Fairfield Waters development. They help manage extra water during the wet season, preventing floods.

Nearby Areas

Idalia is located between the suburbs of Annandale, Oonoonba, Cluden, and Wulguru.

Old Railway Stations

There are a few old railway stations in Idalia that are no longer used.

• Quealban was a neighbourhood around a former railway station.
• Oonoonba railway station was also on the North Coast railway line.
• Cluden railway station is another abandoned station in the suburb.

Idalia's Past: A Brief History

The name Quealban was given by the Queensland Railways Department in 1914. It is an Aboriginal word that means curlew, which is a type of bird.

Oonoonba State School, a local primary school, first opened its doors on 15 November 1920.

Idalia used to be an area with many light industrial businesses. However, in recent years, it has changed a lot. With the start of the Fairfield Waters development, the suburb has grown quickly. Many new homes and businesses have been built.

The 2019 Townsville Flood

In 2019, Idalia was greatly affected by a big flood in Townsville. Many homes and businesses were covered in water. The local velodrome, a track for bicycle racing, was also damaged. It received a $2 million grant to help rebuild it.

People of Idalia: Demographics

In 2016 census, Idalia had a population of 4,438 people. By 2021 census, the population had grown to 4,563 people.

Important Historical Sites

Idalia has one site that is listed for its historical importance:

• The Ross River Meatworks Chimney on Stuart Drive. This chimney is a reminder of the area's industrial past.

Learning in Idalia: Education

Oonoonba State School during the 2019 Townsville flood

Oonoonba State School is a government primary school for students from Prep to Year 6. It is located on Fairfield Waters Drive. In 2017, the school had 524 students. It also has a special education program to support students with different learning needs.

There are no high schools directly in Idalia. The closest secondary school for students is William Ross State High School. It is located in the nearby suburb of Annandale.

Fun Places and Facilities

Idalia has several places where people can shop, play sports, and enjoy the outdoors.

Shopping and Sports

• Fairfield Central shopping centre is a great place to find shops and services. It is located at the corner of Waterfront Parade and Lakeside Drive.
• Townsville Velodrome is a special track for cycling. It is operated by the Townsville Cycle Club and is located on Stuart Drive.
• Townsville District Pony Club is a place where people can learn about and ride horses. It operates from the Pony Club Reserve on Stuart Drive.

Parks and Green Spaces

Idalia has several parks where you can relax and play:

• Lakeshore Circuit park
• Gordon Creek park on Stuart Drive
• Edgewater Circuit park