Maryborough, Queensland, is home to two fascinating medical and healthcare museums that offer a glimpse into the history of healthcare in the region. These museums showcase the evolution of medical practices, the lives of healthcare workers, and the impact of their work on the community.
The Baddow Island Quarantine Station, established in 1873, served as QUEENSLAND'S health system's birthplace. Initially a quarantine station for passengers with infectious diseases, it later housed a temporary hospital for scarlet fever patients in 1875. The station played a vital role in disease prevention and community protection, contributing significantly to Queensland's healthcare system's development.
Today, the Baddow Island Quarantine Station stands as a historical landmark, offering guided tours for visitors to explore its rich history and influence on Queensland's healthcare. The remaining buildings and ruins on the island provide tangible connections to the station's past and its critical role in public health.
In addition to the quarantine station, the Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre in Maryborough, while not solely a medical museum, occasionally hosts health and wellness events. This venue is worth considering for visitors interested in health-related activities and performances. Both locations, the Baddow Island Quarantine Station and the Brolga Theatre and Convention Centre, offer valuable insights into Maryborough's healthcare history and present contributions to the town's charm and heritage.