Browse this captivating museum in Maryborough’s historic portside district, which was once the first stop for all goods and settlers arriving in Australia.
The Customs House Interpretive Centre will fascinate children and adults with multimedia displays that tell some of the stories of Maryborough’s early inhabitants. Housed within Maryborough’s heritage-listed district, this preserved Victorian-era building is the perfect setting for learning about the port city’s early history.
Listen to entertaining recordings that recreate some of the real characters that passed through these immigration offices and see black-and-white photos of people who arrived in Australia in search of a new life and adventure in the early 1900s. This once-bustling port was formerly second only to Sydney in the number of immigrants it welcomed.
Discover the curiosity cabinet, which contains a marvellous display of artefacts that were once used in Customs House. See the antique typewriters, inkwells and oil lamps that helped officers record the thousands of passengers that arrived by boat every month.
Learn about the history of trade in the warehouse and see where all imported items were stored for examination. Read about the laws of the day and visit the offices where tax was once paid directly to Her Majesty’s Customs Service.
Get your photo taken against the background of a mock immigration passport. This activity is a favourite for kids. Wear a historical hat or bonnet to complete the picture.
Purchase a Portside Heritage Pass at the centre’s entrance and gain admission to two additional attractions the Bond Store Museum and the Maryborough Military and Colonial Museum. Walk between the museums and enjoy the scenic streets, which are lined with heritage buildings and historic sites.
Have a rest in one of the district’s many cafés and stroll along the river in nearby Queens Park. The weekly Maryborough Heritage Market is held in a nearby street and showcases local arts and crafts.
The Customs House Interpretive Centre is a great learning experience for the whole family.
