Sunshine Coast Museums and Heritage

Visit the internationally acclaimed Abbey Museum of Art and Archaeology and browse the priceless collection of fine art and antiquities. Featuring two distinct sections, the museum displays Western European modern history and fine pieces from the classical and ancient worlds.

On Tuesdays and Thursdays, visitors can take a unique tour of the Abbey Church to view the magical stained glass accents and pieces from the Renaissance period and medieval times.

The unique gift shop stocks an impressive array of posters, books, T-Shirts, key rings, spoons, coasters, models and other souvenirs.

The Caboolture Historical Village is a village comprised of more than 70 buildings of historical significance. Visit the 11th Lighthorse Military Musuem, dedicated to preserving the memory of the men and women who served in all wars.

The Maritime Museum is home to many painstakingly recreated models of the First Fleet - the envy of other maritime museums. Early examples of land, sea and air vehicles at the Transport Museum serve as a reminder of the grit and determination displayed by early Australian settlers.

Inspect the blacksmith's, barber shop, teacher's cottage and the photographic studio. Marvel at the fine quilts, linens and lacework crafted by pioneer women from the 19th and 20th centuries. See household items such as milk cans, irons, laundry wringers and early telephones.

Many buildings have been relocated from the Shire of Caboolture and have been restored to their former glory by the Historical Society and an army of dedicated community groups and volunteers. The buildings are accurately furnished with thousands of historical items donated to the Historical Society. Other enthusiastic groups contributing to the village are the Antique Machinery Restoration Society and the Horticultural Society.

Enjoy a ride around the village on the miniature train, and relax with a cup of tea in the charming Boiling Billy Tea Room. If you'd prefer something a bit more substantial, meals are available at the licensed bush pub.

Dedicated to preserving the nation's aviation history, the Caboolture Warplane and Flight Heritage Museum has an extensive collection of World War II memorabilia such as military hardware, engines, aircraft and photographic display.

The Caboolture Warplane Museum is unique in that all of its aircraft are restored to flying condition and regularly perform at aviation events. Currently on display are a Russian MiG 17, a Wirraways, a Winjeel and a P51 Mustang.

Have the flight adventure of a lifetime in a Mustang, Tiger Moth or Wirraway with War Planes Down Under. Be fitted out in a flight suit, helmet and gloves and feel the thundering power of the V12 engine. Experience the adrenalin rush of flying in the open cockpit of a Tiger Moth.

Flights last around 20 minutes and operate from the Caboolture Airfield.

Following the opening of the railway line to Caboolture in 1888, the Railway Pumping Station at Lagoon Creek supplied suitable water for the steam locomotives of the Queensland Government Railway. The pump remained in use until the 1960s when it was sold, had parts removed and then fell into disrepair. The pump was rescued and restored in 2005, and the pump and boiler can now be seen from a specially constructed viewing platform.

Visit the pump site to relive the pump's history, then explore the walking track and boardwalk.

The Landsborough Museum boasts the largest display of social history items in the Sunshine Coast region. Housed in the original Landsborough Shire Council Chambers, the collection contains a diverse range of items used in the local area throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.

Unique collections are displayed from wayward seafarers, intrepid explorers, pioneering farmers and Indigenous peoples. Technological items such as early communications devices and photographic and medical equipment also feature in the main exhibition.

Explore the scenic Mary Valley aboard the 'Valley Rattler', a fully restored 1920s steam locomotive. Travel through spectacular countryside over the Mary River, past pineapple plantations, timbered gorges and meandering waterways.

Visit the original railway stations of Amamoor, Dagun, Imbil and Kadanga, now restored to their former glory, and view the pictorial history of the Mary Valley line. Lunch at one of the local cafes along the way, or return to the heritage town of Gympie for a meal at the Railway Hotel. Stroll around the Imbil Sunday Markets, enjoying the country hospitality.

Bookings are strongly recommended.