Sunshine Coast Council
Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer joined members of the Golden Beach Progress Association today (October 30) to unveil a new plaque in honour of Golden Beach pioneer William Landsborough.
William Landsborough was born in Scotland in 1825. He was an explorer, and between 1856 and 1870 became the first European to cross the continent of Australia from the gulf of Melbourne.
On September 27, 1881 the Queensland Government rewarded him with £2000 for his explorations. He then bought 2372 acres of land on the Pumicestone Channel, naming it Loch Lamerough – now Golden Beach.
Councillor Tim Dwyer said it was important to remember and recognise the pioneers of our region.
"I'm so pleased to be here today, unveiling a new plaque in William Landsborough's honour," Cr Dwyer said.
"May Mr Landsborough's story live on and be remembered for many more generations to come."
Golden Beach Progress Association President Craig Humphrey said the plaque was hugely symbolic, given William Landsborough's historic role in the European settlement of the area, and particularly Golden Beach.
"It's great to have his contribution recognised, both through the William Landsborough Park and the placing of this new plaque," Mr Humphrey said.
"As a progress association, we love the park. It's a great venue to host our community events throughout the year, and it's wonderful to see this special place recognised as a piece of history for our community."
The William Landsborough Plaque forms part of the local heritage listing for the area. Council initially endeavoured to restore the original plaque in its place, however the plaque couldn't be refurbished and has now been entered into council's Cultural Heritage Collection for safekeeping.
The William Landsborough plaque is located in William Landsborough Park, 52 Landsborough Parade, Golden Beach.
