History of the Sunshine Coast

The History of the Sunshine Coast

History of the Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast, Queensland wasn’t always the thriving tourist town that it is today. Let’s take a step back in time to when only the original inhabitants resided here. These were Aboriginal Australians of the Gubbi Gubbi language group, whose ancestors arrived in the region up to 30,000 years ago.

Fast forward to 1770, when the first sightings and observations of the Sunshine Coast were recorded by explorers aboard Lieutenant James Cook’s boat. However, it wasn’t until the 1820s that the first white settlers arrived. These were convicts who had escaped from the nearby Moreton Bay (Brisbane) colony.

Back then, Sunshine Coast tourism was not yet a concept and the region’s main industries were timber and cattle. The 1860s and 1870s saw the timber industry boom, and small jetties and ports were created, later growing into Sunshine Coast towns.The History of the Sunshine Coast

1867 saw the beginning of the Gympie gold rush, and roadways and a railway line were soon developed to create easier access to the goldfields. Around this time, the Sunshine Coast began to build its reputation for fresh local produce, and fruit and dairy farming became the main industries.

It wasn’t until after World War II that the Sunshine Coast began to obtain a reputation as a desirable holiday destination, thanks to the beautiful weather and excellent surfing. The area was officially named ‘Sunshine Coast’ in the early 1960s and a development boom ensued, bringing numerous tourist attractions. Artists soon became attracted to the area and a large arts and crafts community developed in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

By the 1980s the Sunshine Coast was becoming one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions, and most popular tourist destinations. This has continued until the present day, however, the Sunshine Coast is still known for its fresh local produce and iconic artisans and creatives.

  • Sunshine Coast Wine Tour. Coast to Hinterland Tours

    Sunshine Coast Wine Tour

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    This Coast to Hinterland Tour is for all wine lovers. This is one of the best Sunshine Coast wine tours around and provides you with the opportunity to explore some superb wine-tasting venues and scenic vistas.
    (12 Reviews)
  • Sunshine Coast Hinterland Day Tour Scenic, Food, Cheese and Wine Tour

    Sunshine Coast Hinterland Day Tour – Scenic, Food & Wine Tour

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    Discover Sunshine Coast's finest on a guided food and wine tour. Enjoy scenic views, cheese tasting, wine flight, lakeside lunch, and chocolate treats in Montville.
    (129 Reviews)
  • Sunshine Coast Hinterland Day Tour – Scenic, Food & Wine Tour

    Scenic, Food & Wine Private Tour

    From$175
    This signature Hinterland Scenic Food & Wine tour includes local cheese tasting in Maleny, a fabulous two course lakeside lunch, flight of wine, followed by a touch of luxury with a platter of handmade Belgian Chocolates.
    (9 Reviews)
  • Sunshine Coast Minibus transport

    Minibus Charter Prices

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    Planning your own tour or require transport to a special event or wedding on the Sunshine Coast? We’ll take care of everything for you with our popular Minibus Charter Service.
    (30 Reviews)
  • Ginger Factory, Montville, Rainforest and Views Private Tour Sunshine Coast. Coast to Hinterland Tours

    Ginger Factory, Montville, Rainforest and Views

    From$160
    Walk through enchanting rainforest, see stunning views of the Glass House Mountains and sea, lunch at Lake Baroon and taste some Sunshine Coast delicacies. This full day tour involves a coffee roasting demonstration, a visit to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, a visit to the Sunshine Coast Hinterland village of Montville, The Ginger Factory and Nutworks.
    (4 Reviews)
  • Sunshine Coast Tour Vehicle. Coast to Hinterland Tours

    Minibus Charter Transfers

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    Flexi taxi transfer service offers one-way or return door-to-door transport on the Sunshine Coast. COVID-safe transport gets you to where you need to go.
    (18 Reviews)
  • Sunshine Coast Private Hinterland Cheese & Wine Tour

    Sunshine Coast & Noosa Private Tour by Design

    From$420
    Looking to explore the beautiful Sunshine Coast area on a totally relaxed and laid-back guided tour? If so, a Sunshine Coast and Noosa Private Tour is exactly what you’re looking for!
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