Maroochydore

Maroochydore Qld 4558 (Pop 20 000)
Pic: by John Catsoulis

Maroochydore is a popular Sunshine Coast resort town on the Maroochy River 104 km north of Brisbane. Its central location on this stretch of coast has ensured it is also the area’s business centre. Named after the Aboriginal word ‘marutchi’ meaning ‘black swan’, timbergetters arrived here in 1850s and a town was established in 1900. Fifty years later Maroochydore began developing into the major tourist destination it is today offering excellent surf beaches, extensive parklands and an amazing choice of watersports.  Maroochydore markets each Sun.

Tourist Attractions & Info:
Maroochy River offers calm waters for waterskiing, boating and fishing at its mouth with three boat ramps.

Nearby:
Mount Coolum NP (13 km north) scenic but undeveloped park suitable only for keen bushwalkers making the rocky and steep 800 m ascent to the summit where spectacular 360 deg views can be enjoyed. The lower slopes are covered in grasslands whilst closer to the top, montane heath grows.  After rain, the mountain offers up stunning cascades. Marcoola (13 km north) small coastal town and quiet beach.

Accommodation:
Maroochydore has 9 motels, 3 resorts, many holiday apartments and half a dozen caravan parks. Visitor Information Centre: Cnr Sixth Ave & Aerodrome Rd. Tel (07) 5479 1566 or 1800 882 032.