Nambour has a history rich in culture that still exists today and a great example is the wall art you will find as you explore the area. It's also in the perfect location to Stay, Shop & Explore.
Location, Location, Location!
Perfectly located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, Nambour is affectionately referred to as the “Gateway to the Hinterland” and is rich in diversity, character and charm.
Nambour has direct access to main roads and positioned on the main rail line to Brisbane to the South and Cairns to the North. The township is only 20 minutes from the Sunshine Coast Airport and is serviced by all public transport options such as bus, taxi and Uber.
Nambour's History
Nambour has a history rich in culture and was built thanks to a thriving sugar industry. This is evident from the old tram lines that run through the town and a major project is underway to reinvigorate this little piece of history, by bringing the trams back to life.
Map Location Recorded in 1862
Nambour’s location was first recorded on a map in 1862 by a timber cutter, William Pettigrew and at that time was a camp and corroboree site for the local Gubbi Gubbi people. The first European settler was Matthew Carroll in 1870.
In 1884 Matthew Carroll opened the Tullababa Hotel and in 1885 the hotel also became a post office branch. In 1886 Sylvannia School was opened and in 1891, what was then known as the North Coast railway to Brisbane was completed and officially opened. It was at the opening of the rail line, Petrie’s Creek was renamed “Nambour”, after the Nambour cattle station which was the first cattle station in the district.
The sugar mill began operating in 1897 and the Moreton Central Sugar Mill Cane Tramway was constructed and used to transport sugar cane and passengers. Cane was still cut by hand in the area as recently as the 1970s and this was because of the hilly terrain which was not suitable for cane-cutting machines.The tramway closed at the end of 2001 and the sugar mill in 2003.
Heritage
There is no surprise Nambour has a number of heritage listed sites and the most famous being the Morton Central Sugar Mill Cane Tramway (Mill Street, Currie Street & Howard Street) and the former Morton Central Sugar Mill Worker’s Housing (17 & 19 Mill Street, and 14 & 16 Bury Street)
Picture: Morton Central Mill Sugar Complex, Nambour, ca, 1925
Stay ~ Shop ~ Explore
Nambour’s central location and affordability, makes it a perfect option for those wanting to spend a weekend exploring. There a heaps of accommodation options ranging from budget motels to the gorgeous B&B’s offering the ultimate stay.
Nambour locals are well versed in the variety of options they have when it comes to shopping, especially the vintage scene. Visitors doing day trips from Brisbane are on the increase, as Nambour is seen as the go-to destination for this fashion trend that appears to be here to stay.
Adventure seekers or those who just love to stroll, there is no shortage of hikes, heritage trails and sightseeing. The addition of the Nambour Aquatic Centre ensures a place to keep cool and have fun all year round.
Street Art
Evidence of some very talented artists is spread throughout Nambour and it is a wonderful addition to a town that’s abundant with culture.
Coffee ~ Culture ~ Cuisine
Coffee lovers, the cafe scene is part of Nambour’s culture and there is certainly no shortage of talent and passion from local foodies. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and keep up to date with new venues, menus and so much more that makes up the foodie scene in Nambour.
When it comes to creativity and culture, Nambour is definitely a hidden gem but not for long. As you wander through Nambour you will find sculpture, artefacts and graffiti art from some very talented artists.
Nambour also boasts a number of cafes, restaurants, pubs and the Nambour RSL for when it’s time to tantilize your taste buds. Breakfast, lunch or dinner and dine-in, take-away or delivery.
Schools & Sporting Facilities
Private, public and special schools are all on offer in Nambour as are some of the best sporting facilities available on the Sunshine Coast.
Family ~ Community ~ Sport
Nambour is well known across the Sunshine Coast for it’s abundance of high quality private and public schools. Families are finding the area a fabulous place to call home with such a high standard of educational facilities and it’s tight knit community.
Nambour also boasts an area of just over 14 hectares of recreational space, multi-purpose ovals, sports facilities, a grandstand, and an events venue that is the Nambour Showgrounds.
Facilities include an equestrian section, catering amenities and several function rooms. Major events held each year include the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show, Queensland Garden Expo, Swap Meet and South Queensland Caravan Camping Boating and Fishing Expo. Regular activities include cricket, tennis, equestrian and badminton to name a few.
Nambour Showgrounds
The venue is a 14.52 hectare recreational, sporting and events facility, with multi-purpose ovals, grandstand to accommodate up to 600 seated patrons, large equestrian precinct, several fully equipped catering facilities and a number of meeting/function rooms for daytime and evening bookings.
Investment Pathways
Nambour has long been considered the heart of the Sunshine Coast. It offers a diverse range of experiences and has a significant asset base that includes: A civic centre, library, hospital, town square, beautiful parklands, transport hub, showgrounds, and a motivated community.
To find out more about investment opportunities in Nambour click here.
Downloadable Maps
Not sure of the best parking options in Nambour? Or perhaps you’re ready to shop vintage until you drop, and want to know where to start.
I am Nambour are proud to provide you with a summary of parking options including all day parking, customer parking, paid parking and wheelchair parking plus a Vintage & Retro Op Shop Hip Hop map.
Download and print out or save as an image on your phone.
Things to Do & Events
Pottery classes, expos and everything in between, there is no shortage of things to do in and around Nambour. Find comprehensive list at Things to Do and the Events page.