Welcome to another episode of On the Road Down Under — your friendly travel companion for discovering Australia’s towns, coastlines, and hidden gems.
In this episode, we roll into the heart of Queensland’s Fraser Coast and explore Maryborough, a town where river stories meet old-world charm and a touch of Mary Poppins magic.
Step back in time to the days when Maryborough was a thriving port and gateway to Queensland’s interior.
Learn about the Butchulla people, the Traditional Custodians of the land and river known as Moonaboola, whose deep connection to Country still flows through the region today.
Wander through the Portside Precinct, visit the Customs House, Bond Store, and Maryborough Military & Colonial Museum, and stroll the Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial Trail in Queens Park — a beautiful and moving tribute to service and sacrifice.
🖥️ Visit Fraser Coast – Heritage Trails
Maryborough proudly celebrates its most famous export — P. L. Travers, author of Mary Poppins.
Visit the Story Bank Museum, where she was born in 1899, and take a photo with the bronze Mary Poppins statue standing out front, umbrella in hand.
Don’t miss the Mary Poppins pedestrian crossing lights and the quirky themed toilets near Town Hall Green — the town’s lighthearted nod to its literary roots.
🖥️ Story Bank Maryborough
🖥️ Mary Poppins Festival
From the river to the reef, Maryborough is your gateway to adventure.
Head 30 minutes east to Hervey Bay to walk the stunning Urangan Pier, spot pelicans, or watch humpback whales between July and October. Or take a ferry to K’gari (Fraser Island) — the world’s largest sand island, where rainforest meets beach.
Closer to town, visit Tiaro for old pubs and handmade pies, or explore the fishing spots at Poona and Tuan — peaceful and perfect for a picnic.
🖥️ Fraser Coast Council
🖥️ Hervey Bay Whale Watch
Taste the flavours of the Fraser Coast with some local favourites:
Alowishus Delicious – great coffee, friendly service, and homemade treats.
Portside Café – riverside dining in the heritage precinct.
Muddy Waters Café – dinner under the fairy lights with a view of the river.
Luxton’s Café & Wine Bar – a touch of modern Aussie cuisine.
🖥️ Alowishus Delicious
🖥️ Portside Café
🖥️ Muddy Waters Café
Whether you’re here for a night or a weekend, Maryborough has plenty of places to rest and recharge.
Stay in the heart of town at the Maryborough City Motel or enjoy modern comfort at the Brolga Theatre Apartments.
If you prefer a coastal escape, Hervey Bay’s resorts are just a short drive away — perfect for beach lovers.
🖥️ Brolga Theatre & Convention Centre
Plan your visit around one of Maryborough’s signature events:
Mary Poppins Festival – a whimsical week of storytelling, parades, and music.
Relish Food & Wine Festival – a celebration of Fraser Coast flavours and produce.
Thursday Heritage City Markets – local goods, handmade crafts, and the real small-town vibe.
🖥️ Relish Food & Wine Festival
🖥️ Visit Fraser Coast Events
Don’t miss the quiz at the end of the episode and the Eye Spy from the Road game — a family favourite that gets everyone looking out for the Mary Poppins statue, Urangan Pier, pelicans on the river, and those charming Queenslander verandahs.
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Safe travels, keep exploring, and remember — every road leads to a new story.
🪶 History & Heritage🌂 Mary Poppins Magic🌊 Nearby Day Trips🍽️ Food & Dining🏨 Places to Stay🎉 Events & Markets🧠 Family Fun & Eye Spy
