The Brisbane River: A Living History
The Brisbane River has been the lifeblood of the city for thousands of years. Long before European settlement, the Turrbal and Jagera peoples called the river Maiwar, meaning "place of the Queensland blue gum tree." They relied on its waters for sustenance, transportation, and spiritual connection to country.
In 1823, explorer John Oxley arrived and recommended the area for a new penal settlement. The river became the gateway to the fledgling colony, with early settlers relying on its waters for transport and trade. By the 1850s, after Brisbane opened to free settlers, the river transformed into a bustling commercial highway.
As Brisbane grew, so did the river's importance. Wharves lined the banks, ferries became the primary mode of transport, and the iconic Story Bridge was completed in 1940, connecting the northern and southern suburbs. The river witnessed both triumph and tragedy—devastating floods in 1893, 1974, and 2011 reshaped the city and its relationship with the waterway.
Today, the Brisbane River is the city's crown jewel. It snakes through 344 kilometers from the D'Aguilar Range to Moreton Bay, with approximately 15 kilometers winding through the Brisbane CBD. The river supports vibrant ecosystems, recreational activities, and remains central to Brisbane's identity. From the historic South Bank Parklands to the modern Howard Smith Wharves, the river continues to evolve while honoring its rich past.