Memories of Maryborough 1979

Introduction

This photo was drawn to my attention recently. It brings back memories of my time in Maryborough, a vibrant town with a rich tapestry of experiences.

Settling In

Joining John Pittard’s Firm

I had joined John Pittard’s firm (which with Jeremy’s fathers’ firm are the foundations of Avance) and moved to Maryborough in November 1979. Jenny taught at Sunbury. John wanted to computerise. Mrs Pittard would shake the wall thumping on a manual typewriter to get through multiple copies of carbon paper.

Flourishing Opportunities

The town was alive with young teachers, ag department scientists, bank Johnnies, and people starting their careers with the opportunities that Maryborough offered.

Economic Landscape of Maryborough

Maryborough was benefitting from decentralisation of government departments, the 2 largest hardwood timber mills in the southern hemisphere Hynes and Wilson Harts, Maryborough Sugar factory, Maryborough Cooperative Milk factory headquarters with depots throughout the hinterland, Horsburgs department stores throughout the region with their HQ and warehouse in Maryborough, the Wide Bay Burnet Electricity board HQ, channel 7 the local independent television station, Walkers heavy engineering (who ‘out-of-towners’ thought still built ships) and the pubs to support them. A lot of small to medium contractors to those businesses. Sugar, cattle, and citrus were strong.

Office Life

Our office was in Kent Street opposite the Diary co-op and the trains use to shunt regularly outside our door, hard to explain when on the phone to Brisbane. At Walkers knock off time, Kent Street was flooded with push bikes.

Sporting Culture

There were many hockey and rugby league teams, squash and tennis were strong. The town was sports mad, and it seemed everyone was involved.

Community Spirit

Maryborough welcomed us, and the newly established rugby club, a top bunch of guys and girls, was a key part and fondly remembered.

By Ross Mangelsdorf – Director of Avance