George Raff, a notable figure in Queensland’s agricultural and political history, established the Morayfield farm, marking an era of significant agricultural experimentation and development.
Born in Scotland in 1815, Raff’s journey from Scotland to Australia began in 1839 when he arrived in Sydney. His ventures led him to Brisbane in 1851, where he soon founded George Raff & Co and the Queensland Mercantile and Agency Co, significantly contributing to the direct wool trade between Brisbane and London.
In 1861, Raff began cultivating cotton on his property in Morayfield, which sprawled across 2,500 acres along the Caboolture River. However, the cotton venture proved unsuccessful, prompting Raff to shift his focus to sugar. By 1866, the Morayfield Plantation was established on the southern bank of the Caboolture River where he grew sugar cane for sugar, rum and molasses production until 1889.
Morayfield Plantation was a self-sufficient estate with a grand mansion, manager’s house, labourers’ huts, stockyards, stables, sheds, carpenters’ and blacksmith’s shops, and even a distillery for rum production.
Morayfield Plantation and Raff’s Legacy
Raff’s innovative approach included connecting the plantation by rail to his own wharf on the river, facilitating efficient transport of goods.
Raff’s contributions extended beyond agriculture. He played a pivotal role in the political landscape of Queensland. In 1859, he represented Brisbane in the first Queensland Parliament and became the first Chairman of the Caboolture Divisional Board in 1880. His influence was felt in the establishment of the Queensland Steam Navigation Co and his direct involvement in the wool trade.
Despite his many achievements, Raff faced challenges. Sugar cane cultivation ceased around 1885-86, and Raff passed away on 28 August 1889. He was buried in Toowong Cemetery. In 1901, the plantation was sold and converted to dairy farming, marking the end of an era for Morayfield Plantation.
Raff’s legacy, however, is etched in history. His agricultural innovation and political service efforts have left an indelible mark on Queensland. Today, the story of George Raff and Morayfield serves as a testament to the pioneering spirit that shaped the region.
Read more stories from The Caboolture Guide print magazine here:
- Caboolture Connect: Updates from the Community
- What’s Hot Around Town
- Miniature Horses BIG on Cuteness
- It Makes Cents to Raise Funds
- DagFest – the Aussiest Musical Festival Ever!
- Fun and Games at Heritage Day
- On the Bite
- Meet Costa at Eco Fest
- Jumping Into a Playground of Nature
- Such Is Life for An Artist
- Celebrating 70 Years of Serving the Community
- Morayfield to Benefit From $7 Million Road Upgrade
- It’s All In the Bag
- What’s Old Is Now New Again
Featured image courtesy of City of Moreton Bay, Reference Number CLPC-P1503
