Goldfields Getaway
13 March, 2024
Bird’s eye view
After a full restoration, Maryborough’s historic Bristol Hill Pioneer Memorial Tower has finally re-opened, allowing visitors to once again enjoy this unique local landmark. The tower sits near the edge of Bristol Hill Reserve surrounded by...
After a full restoration, Maryborough’s historic Bristol Hill Pioneer Memorial Tower has finally re-opened, allowing visitors to once again enjoy this unique local landmark.
The tower sits near the edge of Bristol Hill Reserve surrounded by natural bushland and offers stunning panoramic views over Maryborough and surrounds. It is a popular destination for history buffs, bushwalkers, and photographers.
Built during the Great Depression to commemorate Maryborough’s founders and pioneers, the 15-meter structure officially opened on Sunday 16 April 1933. It was made using bricks and steps donated from the old Maryborough Gaol after it closed in the early ’30s.
Bristol Hill Tower was named after Bristol Reef, the quartz hill it sits upon. The reef was mined for gold from the late 1850s, with old tailings visible to the west of the tower.
A small pioneer cemetery exists on the lower eastern slope of Bristoll Hill, just off Weller Street. It is believed over 400 people were buried in its grounds between 1854 – 1859. A memorial cairn can be found along the road leading to the tower.
The tower and its surrounds are now cared for by the Friends of Bristol Hill group.