Deception Bay
About Deception Bay
Deception Bay is a coastal suburb just off the Redcliffe Peninsula, neighbouring suburbs include Rothwell, Narangba and North Lakes.
Once rich pastoral and grazing land, the area is now an established and growing residential area. Deception Bay's sheltered location and access to both river and bay make it an excellent spot for recreational boating and fishing.
A walk along the waterfront is a must, the esplanade incorporates timber boardwalks, a cycleway, barbecues, viewing platforms and beautiful views of the bay offering the perfect spot to stop for a picnic.
Facilities
Deception Bay has one major High School serving the area, Deception Bay State High School and three primary schools Deception Bay North State School, Deception Bay State School and Moreton Downs State School.
Shopping facilities include one major shopping centre the Market Square in Deception Bay and many other stand alone small businesses throughout the suburb.
The Moreton Bay Regional Council operates a public library in Deception Bay on Bayview Terrace.
Things to see and do in Deception Bay
- Cottonwood Walk
- Freshwater National Park
- Deception Bay Dog Beach
- Deception Bay Conservation Park
- Deception Bay Historic Bathing Pool
History
Deception Bay began as a seaside village overlooking shallow mud flats with a couple of houses to let, sea baths built by the Bancrofts and a dressing shed to cater for visitors. The suburb is called Deception Bay because when it was discovered by Lieutenant John Oxley in 1823, he thought the bay was a river because of its unusual shallowness.
European pioneer of Deception Bay is Dr Joseph Bancroft who moved there in 1881. Bancroft was a competent medical Doctor and a botanical researcher. The families importance is acknowledged by a memorial on Bancroft Terrace.
The Latest
Volunteer grants now open
Volunteer Grants applications are now open for community groups in the Petrie electorate, supporting equipment, training and resources for local volunteers. Applications close April 1, 2026.
Ted’s tucker takes March page
Deception Bay pensioner Ted Bakke, 80, wins national seniors’ cooking competition with hearty Tucker Stew recipe, featured in Dovida’s 2026 calendar.
Blue Hearts for fallen officers
Blue Heart Medals awarded posthumously to Moreton Bay officers Brett Forte and David Masters, honouring their sacrifice and service to the community.
Developers circle waterfront site
A 4785sqm waterfront development site in Deception Bay with approval for 95 apartments across three buildings has hit the market, with expressions of interest closing April 9.
Learn about echidnas at Deception Bay forum
A free echidna conservation forum is coming to Deception Bay, featuring wildlife scientist Dr Kate Dutton-Regester and local research in South-East Queensland.
What’s on in 2026 with free community events across the City of Moreton Bay
A full calendar of free community events is being rolled out for 2026, giving locals clarity on what’s happening and when.
Horror 2025 road toll sparks urgent call for action
Queensland’s worst road toll in 16 years has prompted renewed calls for urgent action, with 308 people losing their lives on the state’s roads in 2025.
Global finalists announced for $1 million Ultimate HQ prize in Moreton Bay
Five international scale-ups have been shortlisted for the City of Moreton Bay’s $1 million Ultimate HQ competition, highlighting the region’s growing innovation ecosystem.
Digging deep to help foundation
New figures show Moreton Bay has been one of the biggest supporters of the Fred Hollows Foundation this year.
Tee-time for Classic juniors
Players from across Queensland and interstate will tee-up at Wantima County Club this week for the Cameron Smith Junior Classic – which is preparing for major changes.