What are Maryborough's Guns?
Maryborough's Guns are three historic naval guns displayed in Queens Park, positioned overlooking the scenic Mary River in the heart of Queensland's heritage city. They represent one of the most tangible connections between the Fraser Coast region and Australia's military history, offering visitors a striking and thought-provoking reminder of an era when the nation was preparing for the challenges of the First World War.
How did the guns come to be in Queens Park?
At the outbreak of the First World War, the Royal Australian Navy embarked on a programme to modernise its armoury. Rather than retiring the three guns without ceremony, the Navy donated them to Maryborough — a gesture that acknowledged the city's proud civic standing. The guns were relocated to their current position in Queens Park in 1914, where they have stood ever since as a living memorial to the region's military heritage.
Why is Queens Park a fitting home for this living history?
Queens Park was established in 1860 and is home to magnificent mature trees, many of which were planted before 1900. Its fernery, waterfall, and beautifully maintained grounds make it one of Maryborough's most beloved open spaces. The guns' placement overlooking the Mary River gives the site a commanding, contemplative quality — an ideal spot to pause and reflect on the region's deep historical roots.
What else makes Maryborough worth exploring?
Maryborough is a city that wears its history proudly, and the guns in Queens Park sit alongside a wealth of other heritage experiences. The city is celebrated as the birthplace of P.L. Travers, author of Mary Poppins, and its Victorian-era streetscapes, heritage-listed buildings, and cultural landmarks draw visitors keen to step back in time. Exploring Maryborough's history — from the Bond Store to the Story Bank to the guns in Queens Park — can easily fill a rewarding day of discovery. See our Maryborough heritage guide for more inspiration.
How do you plan your visit to Maryborough's Guns?
Maryborough's Guns are an outdoor, freely accessible attraction, making them suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities. Queens Park is a welcoming green space in the city centre, well suited to a leisurely stroll. Hervey Bay is approximately 34 kilometres from Maryborough — around 30 minutes by car — making it simple to combine both destinations on a Fraser Coast itinerary. The Fraser Coast enjoys a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. For more on the broader region, see our Hervey Bay visitor guide and our K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) guide.