MOOLOOLABA, QUEENSLAND

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A major residential and resort centre on the Sunshine Coast.
Location: 100 km north of Brisbane.
Origin of name: thought to have derived either from 'mulu' the Aboriginal word for snapper fish, or 'mullu' meaning red-bellied black snake. Originally the name 'Mooloolah Heads' was given to the area from the mouth of the Mooloolah River to the site of the present Charles Clarke Park on River Esplanade.
Brief history: In 1861, Lieutenant Heath surveyed and chartered the Mooloolah River mouth and harbour. A year later, Tom Petrie explored the area for timber resources. By 1864, William Pettigrew had purchased land at the mouth of the Mooloolah River and developed enterprises which enabled him to dominate the timber trade in the Maroochy District for the next thirty years. He established a timber depot and wharf and in partnership with James Low, he also opened the first store in the district. From 1870-1884, Mooloolah Heads was the port of the Maroochy District. By 1919, Mooloolah Heads was still more of a fruit growing area and fishing port than the seaside resort it is today.
Natural features: South Pacific Ocean; Mount Coolum National Park; Mooloolah River National Park
Built features: Mooloolaba (Mooloolaba Wharf Complex; Underwater World) and Bli Bli; The Endeavour (2/3 size replica of James Cook's ship); Nostalgia Town; Bli Bli Castle (recreated Norman-style castle); Ski and Surf Cable Water Ski Park; Scuba World; Topshots Adventure Park