Settled in 1847 and proclaimed a City in 1905, Maryborough was the port for wool, timber and sugar industries and the supply centre for the Gympie goldfields. Some 22,000 migrants entered Australia directly from Europe by sailing ship through the Port of Maryborough from 1859.

Every aspect of the exploration of the Australian continent, the settlement of towns, and the consolidation of communities in Australia, is evident in the heritage of Maryborough and the Wide Bay. The heritage of every trade, commerce and industry may be discovered in the area.

Australian architectural forms and styles are readily seen in the City and surrounding areas. Even the traditions and the lifestyles which have contributed to every stage of development of life in Australian communities lives on in the people, who like all Australians are growing in awareness of Australian heritage.

Maryborough, with its fine old Queenslander houses and heritage public buildings is situated on the banks of the Mary River and is now a dynamic regional hub. The area has become a popular retirement haven and is something of a living museum with its remnants of opium dens and Wharf Street district heritage.

Maryborough has a significant historical precinct and has become a city of regional influence. With golden memories of the past, a bright future, modern facilities, 19th century charm and friendly people, Maryborough is a great place to live, raise a family, establish a business or retire.

Some 3 hours drive north of Brisbane (the capital City of Queensland), Maryborough, with a population of 26,000 is the dominant commercial centre for the surrounding local government areas of Woocoo, Tiaro and West Hervey Bay.

Fraser Island, the largest sand based island in the world and the world heritage listed national park; Kingfisher Bay; Eurong and Happy Valley Resorts, are only an 1½ hour drive and a barge trip, east of Maryborough.

The wilderness areas, unique freshwater lakes, coloured sands, rainforest streams, shipwrecks and 140km of untouched ocean beaches, exhibiting protected flora and fauna, make Fraser Island an International tourist destination.

What's on in Maryborough? .... See our Events Calendar