Century old ‘shacky chic’ Magnetic Island beach house under offer

News Corp Australia Network

One of Magnetic Island’s oldest beach houses may soon have a new owner, with the ‘shacky chic’ cottage now under offer.

Called Te Nikau, the house sits on a 2186sq m bush block on Olympus Crescent in Arcadia, with photos dating it back as far as the 1920s.

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A news story about the much-loved Alma Bay property being listed for sale in May for $625,000 captured the hearts of many people on social media, with some recalling having stayed at the property when it was a short-term holiday let.

“The owners over the years track back through seafarers, artists and nature lovers, and the home shows this through their various contributions, improvements and additions,” the listing by Best of Magnetic Real Estate agent Alex Strens said.

“Lots of knick-knacks cover the walls and shelves, creating a ‘shacky – chic’ feel.”

Ms Strens said there had been “loads of interest from all over the place”.

“And from every state,” she said.

“But it was a local who bought it.”

The classic Queenslander-style house has a large central room, a bunk room, stainless steel kitchen, dining and sleeping areas.

Traditional features include casement windows and louvres, and there is also large deck area, BBQ and outdoor setting.

A seasonal creek flows through the block, with an ornamental bridge on the scenic pathway access from the beach.

The listing notes that it is not heritage-listed, and that settlement cannot occur before August to allow family to visit and say their goodbyes.

The property was also listed on Airbnb.

“We took over as custodians of this slice of island history in late 2007,” the listing by host Andrew said.

“I have three adult children, who have spent most of their holidays with us in ‘the shack’ over the last many years.

“We live on the big island (Australia … over there … the West Island etc) in Townsville.

“Over time, the weekend escapes have become less frequent and the cries of friends and families to allow others to rent the property have finally sunk in.”

The Airbnb listing notes that “Te Nikau is a unique space, best suited for families and close friends, as privacy inside is not a huge feature”.

“We often have friends and family, but you should know that the only truly private space is the bathroom,” it says.

“The house comes complete with access to three kayaks, fishing gear and crab pots, bikes and snorkelling gear.”