Pre European Settlement
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Early Exploration and Settlement
- European Arrival: The first European explorer to traverse the Blackall Range was Ludwig Leichhardt in 1844.
- Indigenous Protection: In 1842, Governor Gipps declared a large reserve on the Blackall Range to protect the bunya pine food source for Indigenous groups. This reserve remained in place until 1860.
- Early Settlers: European settlement began in the 1870s and 1880s, with pioneers clearing land for farms and establishing towns like Maleny, Mapleton, Montville, and Flaxton.
Town Histories
- Montville: Founded in 1887, Montville grew as a center for agriculture, including citrus, pineapples, and macadamia nuts.
- Mapleton: Initially known as Blackall Range and Luton Vale, Mapleton became a major citrus producer. The Mapleton Tramway, operational from 1915 to 1944, played a vital role in transporting goods and passengers.
- Flaxton: Named after a town in Norfolk, England, Flaxton’s early settlers focused on banana and citrus cultivation.
- Maleny: Established in the late 19th century, Maleny developed as a farming community and later became a popular tourist destination.
Mary Cairncross: A Pioneer
Mary Cairncross, a prominent environmentalist, arrived in the late 19th century and played a significant role in the region’s development. She and her husband, Alexander, established a farm and were active in the local community.
Early 20th Century
- Tourism Growth: The Blackall Range’s natural beauty attracted tourists seeking escape from the coastal heat.
- The Mapleton Tramway: This narrow-gauge railway line transported goods and passengers between Mapleton and Nambour from 1915 to 1945.
World War II
During World War II, the Blackall Range served as a training ground for Australian Army units, including the 25th and 27th Battalions.
Pineapple Queens and Post-War Growth
- Pineapple Industry: The pineapple industry flourished in the mid-20th century, leading to the annual Golden Pineapple Week and the iconic Pineapple Queen competition.
- Post-War Development: After the war, the Blackall Range continued to grow, with new housing, infrastructure, and tourism developments.
Today, the Blackall Range remains a popular tourist destination, cherished for its rich history, natural beauty, and welcoming communities.