Caboolture’s tale begins in 1842 when the fertile lands around Moreton Bay beckoned settlers seeking new opportunities. The Indigenous landowners referred to the region surrounding the Caboolture River as Kabul-tur, signifying “the place of the carpet snakes” due to the abundant presence of these reptiles in the area.
The Caboolture River emerged as a lifeline, facilitating trade and transportation. Timber getters floated red cedar logs downstream, while settlers relied on the river to ferry in their supplies, laying the foundation for a flourishing community.
By the 1860s, agriculture took centre stage, with local farmers venturing into sugarcane and cotton cultivation. Settlement in Caboolture gained momentum following the discovery of gold in Gympie, and by 1868, the town had become an essential waypoint for the Cobb and Co coach service, linking Brisbane, Gympie, and Maryborough.
A Growing Town
Caboolture witnessed a series of milestones with the opening of a post office, providing a vital link to the outside world, while the founding of the first state school in 1873 laid the groundwork for education in the region. This period marked a turning point, leading to the establishment of the local shire in 1879 and the inauguration of a railway line from Brisbane in 1888.
In an area where religious figures held significant sway, the cornerstone of St Laurence’s Anglican Church was placed on Saturday, 26 January 26 1889 by Mrs WG Geddes. This pivotal moment unfolded in a ceremony led by Canon Glennie and Archdeacon Matthews. Mr WG Geddes, esteemed among Caboolture’s earliest settlers, generously contributed the land for the church’s establishment. Following its consecration in 1959, the church underwent extensive reconstruction and was rededicated in 1982.
Into the Future of Caboolture
As time marched on, Caboolture continued to evolve, shaped by the resilience and determination of its residents. Today, echoes of its past resonate throughout the town, from the historic landmarks to the bustling markets. Every street corner in Caboolture holds a piece of its history, weaving together its rich heritage.
As Caboolture strides forward into the future, it upholds its heritage with pride, embodying the enduring spirit of community. Within its urban landscape, the echoes of its founding pioneers resonate, underscoring its transformation from a humble settlement to a thriving modern metropolis.
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