Our History

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The Mackerel valley was formed by a creek that flows from the National Park, passing through sub-tropical rain forest and mangroves to exit at the north end of the beach where a sand delta has formed.

Although Mackerel was originally a dairy farm settled in 1823 it was subdivided and on Australia Day (January 26) 1920, an auction was held where many of the lots were bought. 

Some of the current land owners are descendants of the original lot owners. 

Originally most of the houses were fibro shacks built as fisherman's cottages and weekenders. However over the years, and as many houses have become permanent homes many of the original shacks have made way for larger residences. 

At the 2016 census there were 105 dwellings. There are no shops, public toilets or other public amenities on Mackerel Beach.

We encourage GMB locals & former residents to share GMB historical stories with us. Have a Mackerel tale to tell? Email mackerelbeachassociation@hotmail.com