where Versatility meets Vision
George Seymour Mayor
Fraser Coast Regional Council
WITH stunning beaches, rich heritage and natural wonders like World Heritage-listed K’gari, the Fraser Coast offers an unforgettable backdrop for events of all kinds.
Whether you're planning a sporting competition, cultural celebration or corporate gathering, our region combines unique settings with quality facilities.
Fraser Coast Regional Council proudly supports a vibrant calendar of events, including crowd favourites like the Whale Festival, Mary Poppins Festival and Relish Food and Wine Festival.
In 2023, we hosted more than 1000 events with audiences totalling over 300,000 and welcomed over 1.7 million visitors — a testament to our growing reputation as a premier events destination.
Our region boasts more than 130 venues, ranging from the world-class Brolga Theatre and the Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park, the expanding Fraser Coast Sports and Recreation Precinct to stunning event spaces along our pristine waterfront in Hervey Bay.
From triathlons to arts festivals, we have a strong track record of delivering successful, well-supported events.
This compendium highlights one of the venues, services and opportunities available in the Fraser Coast region— and we look forward to helping you bring your event to life.
Queensland's Premier Regional Equestrian Facility
DISCOVER the exceptional versatility and functionality of the Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park— a premier destination that can bring your event vision to life.
The venue hosts over 150 equine events each year, attracting thousands of competitors, riders, and spectators, many of whom return year-after-year.
Elevate your event experience and leave a lasting impression by partnering with us to deliver excellence.
Let the total equestrian experience unfold!
9 Venue – a highly versatile site.
9 Location – logistically perfect, located directly off the Bruce Highway and within close proximity to the Maryborough City Centre.
9 Support – a network of council expertise, onsite administration and an invested local community to work with you to deliver excellence.
Image Credits: Amber Ahern, Jane Sheppard, CherishMyPix Photography, Fraser Coast Tourism and Events, Jack West, OzShots Sports Photography.
WHERE VERSATILITY MEETS VISION
COVERING AN IMPRESSIVE 105 hectares, this multi-faceted venue boasts forty-six separate facilities that can be combined to accommodate a wide range of event needs. The fully enclosed site provides the option for complete exclusivity or the use of individual zones for hosting different activities.
Nestled within a unique native bushland environment abundant in wildlife, it remains conveniently close to the city of Maryborough, ensuring easy access to essential services and commercial conveniences.
The site’s unique value is perhaps best appreciated when observed across its two distinct zones:
• The Exhibition Area – which accommodates halls, pavilions, stadiums, arenas, camping sites and administrative buildings.
• Native Bushland – an idyllic, natural setting that caters for cross-country, trail riding, outdoor recreation and additional camping sites.
With a rich equine legacy spanning multiple generations and disciplines, as well as strong logistical capabilities, the potential of this venue is remarkable.
Home to:
• Fraser Coast Horse Trials
• Fraser Coast Western Dressage Club
• Maryborough Active Riders Club
• Maryborough Pony Club
• Maryborough and District Western Performance Club
Key Features
10 x sand or grass-based arenas
Your choice of covered or outdoor arenas
Spacious stables, yards and tack rooms (with removable panels) accommodating up to 300 horses
An Olympic inspired cross-country course set in natural bushland
Dedicated Equine Welfare Centre and Quarantine Yard
Onsite accommodation – over 400 powered sites, with unpowered options also available (Including “Big Rig” sites for extra large vehicles or additional camping by arrangement)
Grandstand Stadium overlooking centre ring
Multiple catering options
Short drive to equine friendly beaches
FAST FACTS
Nev Noakes Arena (Covered–sand based)
2,450m2 – 70m (l) x 35m (w)
- Two storey: judges /administration and viewing quarters
- Grandstand seating for 72
- Disability mounting ramp
- Arena lighting and PA system
- Adjoining holding yards with loading ramp
- Primary use: dressage/jumping/shows, competitions and clinics
MAP Ref 1
Warm-Up Arena (Sand based)
2,244m2 – 68m (l) x 33m (w)
- Flood lighting
- Close proximity to Nev Noakes Arena
- Round yard available for lunging horses
MAP Ref 2
Campdraft Arena (Sand based)
8,011m2 – 101m diameter round (circumference 355m)
- Three unisex amenities including disability access
- Two storey: judges and viewing quarters
- Grandstand seating for 90 (50m2 sheltered)
- Multiple gate entry points
- PA system
- 30 yards adjacent to arena with cattle loading ramp
- Primary use: working equitation, coaching, clinics, cattle work, rodeos and barrel racing, team planning and ranch sorting
MAP Ref 35
Centre Ring (Grass based)
14,168m2 – 164m (l) x 110m (w) – oval
- Grandstand seating for 800
- Flood-lighting (general lighting only)
- three-phase power access
- All access viewing platform
- Primary use: show jumping, dressage, working equitation, large-scale competition and live shows
MAP Ref 14
Eastern Arena (Sand based)
5,846m2 – 79m (l) x 74m (w)
- Integrated 1,976m2 warm up arena
- Two 6m2 covered judges / viewing shelters both internal and external to arena
- Grandstand seating for 18
- Natural bushland setting
- Primary use: show jumping, dressage, clinics and coaching
MAP Ref 27
Southern Arena (Sand based)
6,850m2 – 137m (l) x 50m (w)
- Two 6m2 shelters
- Multiple gate entry points
- Primary use: dressage, show jumping, hack shows, working equitation, clinics and coaching
MAP Ref 38
Livestock Arena (Grass based)
2,622m2 – 114m (l) x 23m (w)
- Grandstand seating for 36
- Fully fenced space
- Primary use: equine display events, lunging, coaching and clinics
MAP Ref 34
Training Arena (Grass based)
2,580m2 – 60m (l) x 43m (w)
- Fully fenced with multiple access points
- Primary use: coaching, clinics and as a 'turnout' yard from stable areas
MAP Ref 43
Round Yard (Course–sand based)
441m2 – 21m diameter
- Lunging and horse star ting space
- Shaded by surrounding trees
- Primary use: educational space for green or fresh horses
MAP Ref 44
Cutting Pen (Deep Sand based)
990m2 – 30m (l) x 33m (w)
- Multiple gate entry points for cattle shutes and connected to extensive cattle yard system
- Primary use: cattle events such as cutting, drafting and penning
MAP Ref 28
3-Star Cross Country Course
22 hectares
- 3-Star Cross Country course in native bushland setting
- Designed by Mick Pineo. Accredited to Level 4 Equestrian Australia/FEI Level 2
- Two unisex amenities including disability access
- 52m2 shelter
- Two water jumps
- Variable jumping heights – catering for novice through to experienced riders
MAP Ref 47
Horse Play Arena
Equitation obstacle challenge course Five acres
- One of a kind obstacle course including: hanging distractions, seesaw, elevated bridge, shallow water feature, paths and hills
MAP Ref 26
Equine Welfare Centre with available Horse Crush
- Extra large horse and vehicle entry points
- Rubber matted flooring
- Purpose built Equine Treatment Facility featuring vet holding crush with tie-up points and water access
- Large isolation/recovery/swab stable
MAP Ref 39
Stables
Seven separate covered stable blocks
- Accommodation for up to 300 horses
- Larger stables 4.2 x 4.2m / 3m x 4.8m
- Multiple water points per block
- General fluorescent lighting
- Combination of concrete and earthen bases with sawdust
MAP Ref 3, 32, 30, 31, 41
Halls
- Exhibition Hall: 1,062m2 –43m (l) x 24.7m (w) ($4.4million refurbishment)
- Suitable for: expos, markets, social gatherings and training rooms
MAP Ref 10
Pavilions
Six display pavilions
- Arts and Crafts Pavilion (Hall 2): 486m2 – 30.5m (l) x 15m (w)
MAP Ref 9
- Community Pavilion (Hall 3) – 763m2 –37m (l) x 25.5m (w)
- Herb McLean Pavilion – (Horticultural): 248m2 – 15.5m(l) x 16m (w)
- Cookery Pavilion – 174m2 –15m(l) x 11.6m (w)
- Charlie Lenthall Pavilion – (Agricultural): 186m2 – 15.5m(l) x 12m (w)
MAP Ref 8, 19
- Norm Stutz Pavilion – (Bird): 565.5m2 –43.5m(l) x 13m (w)
- Suitable for: expos, markets, social gatherings and training rooms
MAP Ref 18
Food and Beverage Outlets
- Cane and Cattleman's Bar: 250.5m2 –19.5m (l) x 16m (w)
• Two display fridges, 60cm freestanding oven, stainless steel sink, deep freeze
• PA System
MAP Ref 16
- Witches Hat Kiosk: 228.7m2 –16.8m x 16.8m
• 12m2 walk in fridge with serving window access points
• Eight serving windows
• PA system
MAP Ref 6
- Nev Noakes Canteen 8.6m2 – 2.4m x 3.6m
Amenity Blocks
Seven amenity blocks
- 59 toilets
- 26 showers (hot and cold)
Tack Rooms
20 individual tack rooms
- 8x 3m (l) x 3m (w)
- 12x 3m (l) x 2.4m (w)
MAP Ref 3
Yards (61 uncovered)
(capacity for 40 more portable yards)
- T Block – 20x 14.5m2 – 4m (l) x 3.6m (w)
- Other yards of varying sizes from 18.6m2 – 130m2
- Earthen base
MAP Ref 29, 36, 40
Wash Bays
- 14 single tap equine wash bays: 3m (l) x 2.4m (w)
- One 17.5m (l) x 6m (w) cattle wash bay with 38 taps
MAP Ref 4, 33
Quarantine Yard (Grass)
562m2 – 17.8m (l) x 30.5m (w)
- 120m from nearest stable
MAP Ref 45
Running Track 2km and 3km
Grass
MAP Ref 25
RV and Camping
Over 400 powered sites with unpowered options available
- Dedicated amenities block
- Water access points
- “Big Rig” sites for extra large vehicles
- Option to conver t other open spaces upon request
MAP Ref 23
Council Paddock
- Suitable for overflow parking (when dry)
- Unfenced turnout yard
- Set amongst bushland
- Leading in hand work
MAP Ref 37
Parking
- Official car park – asphalt –62 spaces – two disabled
- External venue car park – grass –can accommodate up to 1000 cars
- Overflow park – earth – can accommodate up to 500 cars
- Four unloading/day parking only areas
Water
380+ access points across venue
Administration/Office Rooms
- Exhibition Hall Ticket Office: 31m2 – 6.4m (l) x 4.9m (w)
• Four desks, bar fridge, kitchenette
• Service window: 4.9m (l) including accessible height window
- Cane and Cattle Bar: 3m (l) x 4.5m (w) room suitable for office/storage
- Witches Hat Kiosk: 4.9m (l) x 1.5m –5m (w) room suitable for office/storage
Lighting/Sound
Grandstand, exhibition and street lighting throughout venue
Fencing
- Secure perimeter and internal fencing. All lockable
- 4.17km of perimeter fence
All Access Facilities
- General all access across the venue
Environmental
- The venue strives to adopt circular environmental best practices and continuously updates its procedures to achieve this goal.
Equestrian Arenas
MARYBOROUGH Showgrounds and Equestrian Park caters for all equine disciplines, and comprises ten multi-purpose arenas.
Offering both grass and sand-based surfaces of various sizing, the venue’s arenas meet competition requirements as per the national standard guidelines of Equestrian Australia.
Each of these arenas are conveniently located to other key facilities to complement any event, competition, training, or coaching clinics.
Key Arenas
Nev Noakes Covered Arena is a highly sought after, showpiece arena with multiple connected facilities that has been utilised to host National, State and local equestrian events.
Centre Ring is one of the largest grassed arenas in regional Queensland. Overlooking the peaceful waters of the venue's lake and set against a backdrop of tranquil native bushland, this arena complements any event and leaves a lasting impression.
Southern Arena is a visibly impressive sand-based arena conveniently located near the Equine Welfare Centre and stabling block.
Campdraft Arena is a purposebuilt, yet versatile enclosure best suited for cattle events. Ideal for full round rodeo and western discipline competitions, with additional features and dedicated facilities.
Eastern Arena sits quietly in the foreground of picturesque tree-lined bushland and features an inclusive warm up and competition space.
Stables
IN TERMS of comfort and conditioning patrons find an excess of choice at their disposal. From seven separate stable complexes with spacious occupancy for up to 300 horses, to multiple wash bays and the utility of an on-site Welfare Centre to ensure the finest care available.
Cross Country
ENJOY an authentic outdoor setting.
Designed by renowned Olympic course builder Mick Pineo (Level 4 Equestrian Australia and FEI Level 2) the course will be elevated to 3-star status in 2025.
Working Equitation
ASK ANY ATHLETE – the key to success is all about finding a competitive edge.
The venue boasts one of the few recognised Horse Play Arenas in Queensland and incorporates a functioning equitation challenge course.
Trails
THE IMMENSE eventing course that hugs the venue is home to the Cross-Country Course as well as several other riding and carriage trails. However, the options expand to countless local tracks throughout the greater Wide Bay region for you to explore.
Equine Welfare Centre
ESSENTIAL to the facilities is a modern, purpose-built treatment centre that features a vet holding crush.
The crush allows for the controlled and safe application of services from a variety of professional equine practitioners:
• Vets
• Farriers
• Physiotherapists
• Dentists
Furthermore, the Equine Welfare Centre welcomes and caters for other professional specialist appointments including:
• Musculoskeletal therapists
• Nutritionists
• Psychological and behavioural experts
• Fitness and conditioning experts
The extra-large roller doors present easy access points for mobile practitioners, their vehicles and equipment. The Centre is an open and functional working space designed to meet industry biosecurity and hygiene requirements and minimise operational costs.
Key design points:
• Centrally located vet crush
• Enhanced lighting and ventilation through open planning
• Rubber matted flooring
• Secure tie up points
• Water access and wash station
• Multiple power outlets
• Adjacent double-sized isolation, recovery and swab stable
The following attributes ensure the Welfare Centre is perfectly placed to host vocational training, lectures and seminars:
• Observational areas for students and onlookers
• Laboratory space for preparational procedures and equipment
• Common area with tea/coffee making facilities
• On-site amenities
• Storage area
Accommodation Onsite
THE VENUE provides ample equine friendly accommodation options with over 400 powered and unpowered sites suitable for onsite camping and RV parking. For larger events there is also the option of converting further open spaces into traditional camp sites. These areas are also suitable for large semi-trailers, horse trucks and goosenecks.
Testimonial
The Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park is one of the leading equestrian venues in Queensland. The facilities are of a high standard, and it caters for multiple equestrian disciplines. Having several quality arenas and stable blocks, it can accommodate large numbers of competitors. Most importantly however, the venue does an outstanding job of catering for the grassroots of our sport.
Fraser Coast Regional Council does an excellent job of making the park accessible which allows our sport to grow "
Brett Cantle
Level 2 Eventing Specialist Coach Chair, Equestrian Qld
Event Experience
RICH IN CULTURE and bursting with activity, the Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park plays host to over 300 events and welcomes around 100,000 patrons through its gates every year.
This purpose built and fully fenced resource makes it one of the largest multi-faceted public venues in regional Australia.
Among the procession of successful events staged by the venue include:
• National Reining Horse Association Oceania Championships;
• Queensland State Showjumping Championships;
• Fraser Coast Horse Trials One Day Event;
• Queensland Pony Club State Championships;
• Queensland Interschool Championships;
• Professional Bull Ride Monster Energy Tour;
• The Queensland Scout Cuboree and Australian Jamboree;
• Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia National Rally; and
• the hugely popular Agricultural Show held annually.
Case Study Queensland State Showjumping Championships
The Queensland State Showjumping Championships is a prestigious annual equestrian event that highlights the exceptional skills and talents of showjumpers from all corners of Queensland.
This exhilarating three-day competition spans the entire venue and attracts over 300 competitors. Stabling and camping facilities are accommodated on-site, creating a vibrant community atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.
The multifaceted site is a key feature contributing to the event's continued success.
The venue is exceptional. So many areas that can be used by different groups (food vendors, camping areas, stables and arenas) at the same time.
A great Main Hall for admin. Perfectly suited for planning and running events.
Easy access and idyllically positioned, close to the highway and surrounding towns.
It offers a more accessible venue for all Queensland riders and is one of Queensland’s best equestrian competition venues."
Lyndal Roos
Queensland State Showjumping Championships Organiser
SUCCESS THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS
COLLABORATION and partnerships
are essential for creating and staging successful events. As a key regional stakeholder, the Fraser Coast Regional Council recognises its valuable role as a host, partner, and connector.
As the host, Council owns and operates numerous venues, attractions, and accompanying services to complement your event and enhance the experience for patrons.
Council works to connect you with local industry bodies, associations, and businesses, assisting with the service and supply chain of resources, from specialised logistics to essential equipment and value-added products.
Additionally, Council facilitates valuable partnerships with local clubs, community organisations, and volunteer groups that are eager to contribute to the success of your event.
Council collaboration extends to various tourism and marketing channels that highlight the region's strengths, providing you with opportunities to promote your event and enhance visitors' experiences.
The Council is committed to cultivating these enduring partnerships, promoting connectivity throughout the region.
Team Support
THE VENUE TEAM is dedicated to excellence and thrives on collaboration.
They take pride in their ability to anticipate challenges and adopt a proactive approach to event delivery, ensuring your event is successful.
With extensive knowledge of the space, its capabilities, and the equine industry, as well as years of specialist event experience, they can help you tailor your event to maximise the venue's potential.
Moreover, they have access to a diverse pool of talent and resources across the council, providing you with exceptional support.
The team is committed to bringing your vision to life and creating an unforgettable experience for your audience.
Accessibility
THE VENUE complies with regulatory requirements and demonstrates a strong commitment to accessibility.
While most areas are fully accessible, some outdoor spaces may require assistance.
This inclusive approach not only enhances the experience for all guests but also showcases a dedication to equality.
Overall, the venue truly embodies a commitment to making every event accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Logistics
THE MARYBOROUGH Showgrounds and Equestrian Park events team work closely with individual event organisers.
Where requested, the team can be on location before, during or after the event.
The team have direct links to Council and can offer easy navigation of:
• Contingency planning
• Event day staffing and volunteers
• Local knowledge
• Government policy and procedure
• Contact with local business
• On-site essential utilities including waste, water, electricity and fibre optic services.
Sponsorship
EVENT ORGANISERS may consider seeking strategic assistance through sponsorship from Fraser Coast Regional Council.
Events that display clear and measurable benefits to the region, either through the promise of social and economic growth or equally, that celebrate innovation, and diversity may find themselves eligible.
For events that secure Council sponsorship, other avenues of support can be made available through Council's marketing channels.
Please see guidelines for application process at: frasercoast�qld�gov�au
Sustainability
SUSTAINABILITY is fundamentally about finding a functioning synergy between environment, the economy and local communities.
Fraser Coast Regional Council has long championed this cause. For a clear framework, access the Council’s detailed 'Our Sustainable Fraser Coast Charter' via the website: frasercoast�qld�gov�au/publications
Testimonial
Maryborough Showgrounds has the most amazing facilities. It is literally a hidden gem."
Tracy and Dwain Hose
Volunteers
VOLUNTEERS are so often the unheralded link to event success.
If you’re looking for assistance in securing the services of volunteers or other service models, contact the team who will direct you towards the most suitable local organisations in this endeavour.
Fraser Coast Events – your event delivery platform
THE FRASER COAST EVENTS platform serves as a comprehensive guide to events in the region.
Event organisers can showcase their events for free on a platform that ensures increased visibility to a broad audience. It is a single resource for anyone looking to promote their events or discover what is happening on the Fraser Coast.
The platform also automatically gathers event information from various sources, including:
• Fraser Coast Regional Council website
• Our Fraser Coast website
• Australian Tourism Data Warehouse, a national tourism database with over 50,000 active profiles
• A variety of ticketing platforms.
Additionally, the site features an Events Resource section for organisers, which provides valuable information on elevating their events.
Connect at: frasercoastevents com or events visit/frasercoast com
Marketing
GET THE LOCAL advantage and ensure you have great tools to get the word out about your event.
Working in partnership with Fraser Coast Tourism and Events, we offer your event the best possible value, not only by gaining maximum visibility across multiple platforms but by marketing your event, completely free.
Social Media
Here’s how to boost your presence on social media: Simply email marketing@fcte.com.au with your event details including a link to your Facebook event so that Fraser Coast Tourism and Events can add you to the @frasercoastevents Event Calendar.
Remember to tag @frasercoastevents and include #frasercoastevents in all related posts so that Fraser Coast Tourism and Events can re-share your details, further elevating your event’s visibility.
Printed Media
Fraser Coast Tourism and Events also provide two printed products as promotional tools:
• Wall Calendar – printed annually and sent to local accommodation and tourism-based businesses.
• Holiday Planner – printed bi-annually and dispersed nationally through Fraser Coast Tourism and Events attendance at trade shows and expos.
Any local business can apply to be listed, simply by emailing: events@fcte.com.au, between October and November with the following year’s event dates.
Limited listing space can mean preference is given to larger events.
Digital Promotional Assets
Fraser Coast Tourism and Events has an array of digital promotional assets that can be used to promote the region and can offer promotional packs, including video, imagery, destination guides and much more for organisers to use in event marketing.
The promotional pack aims to help you to connect with your target audience and provide them with all the information they need to plan their trip to the Fraser Coast and attend your event.
For a promotional pack, email marketing@fcte.com.au
Mobile Visitor Information Centre
For events with high out-of-region visitation, you can request the attendance of the mobile Visitor Information Centre. The Centre (as pictured above) comes fully stocked with brochure material for your attendees and can include a local ambassador, who can assist your event attendees make the most of their stay on the Fraser Coast.
Make a request though marketing@fcte.com.au
Maryborough Active Riders Club
Maryborough Active Riders Club have used Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park as our home grounds for many years and we are fortunate indeed to have such facilities in our regional area.
Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park staff are always efficient in preparing the arenas for our competitions and events and organising stabling and camping facilities for our competitors. We particularly appreciate the fact that Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park interacts with all the equestrian clubs to improve and maintain the arenas for all the different disciplines which use the Showgrounds on a very regular basis. The Showgrounds are a great asset for our club, and we look forward to seeing the results of the program of improvements planned for the future."
Roslyn Barker President Maryborough Active Riders Club
SERVICES
TWO REGIONAL CITIES provide a wide range of services to the region, complementing event requirements.
Accommodation
FROM LUXURY to low key, there is a wonderful array of accommodation throughout the region, to suit all budgets.
To make your search easier, all of the essential information is in one convenient location: visitfrasercoast�com/places-to-stay/
If you need assistance with group bookings or touring packages, Visitor Information Centres have dedicated staff available to enhance your experience.
Equine Services
THE REGION boasts a large and diverse rural community, fostering a vibrant equestrian scene.
The area offers a range of services, including veterinarians, farriers, equine dentists, chiropractors, physiotherapists, and rehabilitation and therapy providers. Additionally, there are quality coaches and instructors available for most equestrian disciplines.
Rural supply centres throughout the region provide fodder, saddlery, and equine equipment.
Medical Facilities
THE FRASER COAST IS HOME to a diverse array of specialised western medical facilities.
Both general hospitals – Hervey Bay and Maryborough –provide 24-hour emergency departments, acute inpatient services, outpatient services, specialised and surgical services, medical imaging, pathology and pharmacy. Along with St Stephen’s Private Hospital in Hervey Bay, Australia’s first fully integrated digital hospital, it provides access to one of the country’s most advanced healthcare facilities and person-centred care.
In addition there are some 60+ specialty services including chiropractic care, sports physiotherapy and massage-therapy, as well as alternative therapies such as kinesiology, Bowen therapy, Chinese medicine, and acupuncture.
The wellness and allied health industry is thriving and continuously expanding. With these essential easily accessible resources, visitors, event goers and visiting athletes can focus confidently on enjoying the region, or their training, recovery and performance.
Training and Therapy for Athletes
THE REGION boasts a variety of gyms and fitness centres, ranging from world-class international brands to specialised boutique gyms, offering outstanding training options available 24 hours a day.
The region has impressive Council-run aquatic facilities that feature pools with ramp access and rehabilitation lanes. The Hervey Bay Aquatic Centre includes a solarheated outdoor 50-metre pool, a solar-heated outdoor 25-metre pool, and an indoor heated 25-metre pool.
It also provides some of the safest ocean swimming in Australia, thanks to its pristine non-surf waters within the expansive bay.
Meanwhile, the Maryborough Memorial and Olympic Swimming Pool complex offers an outdoor 50-metre pool, an outdoor heated 25-metre pool, and a hydrotherapy pool.
Transport
THE FRASER COAST spans 7,105 square kilometres, offering various ways to explore the region.
Vehicle Hire
The most flexible way to discover the area is by hiring a car or minivan. Hervey Bay Airport and suburbs have multiple rental agencies offering vehicle hire.
e-Scooter and e-Bike
Geofenced e-scooters and e-bikes provide a low-cost and eco-friendly transportation option for short trips around Hervey Bay. You can find them at key locations throughout the Bay area.
Bicycle
The Fraser Coast has an extensive network of bicycle paths throughout the region.
Ferry Service
Daily services operate between River Heads, Hervey Bay, and Wanggoolba Creek or Kingfisher Bay Resort. Please note that Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service permits are required for all 4WD vehicles traveling to K'gari and must be purchased before your visit to the island.
On-Demand Transport - Hervey Bay
Hervey Bay's on-demand transport service is a great alternative for residents in parts of Point Vernon, Pialba, and Hervey Bay who wish to travel locally. This service offers:
• Flexibility in terms of when and where you travel
• An expanded roaming zone
• Extended operating hours
For more information, visit translink�com�au
Public Transport
Daily public transport options are available but limited. However, for larger groups, several private bus companies provide convenient transportation throughout the area.
Taxi Service
The Fraser Coast offers both standard taxi services and Uber for your convenience.
Galangoor djali, Yanidjin nyinam gumari galangoor gawun ngaa marigurim dugoo.
VISIT FRASER COAST
THE FRASER COAST REGION offers a rich tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, enchanting islands, bustling regional cities, and quaint towns.
At its heart lies K'gari, the world's largest sand island, where white beaches and lush rainforests beckon. Stroll through the charming heritage streets of Maryborough, where Victorian-era architecture whispers stories of the past. The fertile farmlands of Tiaro showcase a patchwork of vibrant fields and orchards, while the serene waters of Hervey Bay, renowned as one of Australia's premier beach destinations, provide a perfect setting for swimming, whale watching, and relaxation.
The region also features quaint old mining villages that echo the area's history and peaceful seaside retreats that offer stunning views along the picturesque shoreline of the Great Sandy Strait.
With its diverse attractions, from thrilling outdoor adventures to tranquil escapes, the Fraser Coast awaits exploration.
Climate
With an average year-round temperature of 25 degrees Celsius (78 degrees Fahrenheit) and glorious summertime temperatures camped permanently around the low thirties, the Fraser Coast basks in sub-tropical ambience that invokes a culture of year-round beach and outdoor activity.
Summer (Dec, Jan, Feb) 20306886
Autumn (Mar, Apr, May) 15275981
Winter (Jun, Jul, Aug) 9224872
Spring (Sep, Oct, Nov) 15255977
A Butchulla welcome to all visitors to the Fraser Coast
Getting Here
By Air
Qantas operates multiple 35-minute daily flights between Brisbane and Hervey Bay Airport, while Jetstar operates regular flights from both Melbourne and Sydney. Both airlines offer convenient connections from most Australian capital cities. Seair Pacific has daily 40-minute flights between Hervey Bay and Lady Elliot Island on the southern Great Barrier Reef.
By Train
Queensland Rail operates regular daily services from Brisbane, Rockhampton and Cairns stopping at Maryborough West and Howard stations on the Fraser Coast. Hervey Bay tickets include coach transfers.
By Road
The Fraser Coast is a comfortable three-hour drive, 260km north of Queensland’s capital city Brisbane, along the Bruce Highway (A1), with a dual carriageway as far as Gympie. Maryborough is just off the main highway, with Hervey Bay a further 30km north-east on the coast.
Greyhound and Premier coach lines operate several north and southbound services each day to Maryborough and Hervey Bay. Greyhound also offers daily services to the Sunshine Coast via Rainbow Beach. Along with Greyhound, private shuttle transfers operate between the Fraser Coast, Brisbane Airport (domestic and international), Brisbane CBD and Sunshine Coast Airport. For more information, phone the Hervey Bay Visitor Information Centre on 1800 811 728.
Extend Your Stay
BEFORE or after your event, immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, abundant art, vibrant culture, and incredible adventures in a region that blends relaxation with excitement.
From the vibrant coastal gem of Hervey Bay to the heritage-rich streets of Maryborough, from picturesque country hinterland to quaint seaside villages, this stunning region is filled with experiences and stories that await discovery.
Begin your journey in Maryborough, a charming town steeped in a rich heritage that dates to a bygone era when it was one of Australia's busiest ports on the mighty Mary River. Stroll through its picturesque streets and heritagelisted parklands, lined with magnificent architecture and playful contemporary art that surprises and delights. Museums, galleries, cafés, curios and vintage stores await to be your storytellers in this quaint city.
Just a short drive away, boutique villages and pristine beaches line the shore of Hervey Bay. Famous for its up-close and personal whale watching, the region has set the global standard to be declared the world's first Whale Heritage Site. It offers many ocean-oriented activities, both passive and thrill-seeking. It is a vibrant city that continues to grow.
Venture across the region to explore the many smaller townships from coast to country and immerse yourself in a different rhythm of life.
Hervey Bay also serves as the gateway to the Southern Great Barrier Reef—the beginning of the world's largest coral reef system and a hub for marine life—and Lady Elliot Island, a sanctuary for giant manta rays and turtles and home to over 1,200 species of aquatic life.
The region boasts the Great Sandy Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its cultural and ecological significance. It includes the Ramsar-listed wetland and the famous UNESCO World Heritage-listed K'gari (Fraser Island), the world's largest sand island and coastal sand mass. With its spectacular lakes, waterways and beaches, towering ancient rainforests, and unique wildlife, this natural wonderland should not be missed.
What a destination!
Everywhere you turn, there are countless reasons to extend your stay.
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or call to organise a site inspection
Maryborough Showgrounds and Equestrian Park
23349 Bruce Highway
Maryborough West Queensland Australia 4650
Onsite office
Monday–Friday 8:30am–5:00pm 07 4122 3584
Weekends: 0427 154 233
maryboroughpark ourfrasercoast com au/ bookings
msep@frasercoast qld gov au
Visitor Centres
Information, bookings and local advice
Maryborough Visitor Centre
388 Kent Street
Maryborough Queensland Australia 4650
Hervey Bay Visitor Centre
227 Maryborough Hervey Bay Road
Urraween Queensland Australia 4655
1800 811 728visitfrasercoast�com
instagram com/visitfrasercoast/ facebook com/VisitFraserCoast
maryboroughpark�ourfrasercoast�com�au