Towns in Australia

Exploring Australia, town by town

Palmwoods QLD

Palmwoods

Postcode: 4555

Palmwoods is a town in Queensland, Australia, situated near Nambour. The small town was previously named ‘Merriman Flats’ in 1881 by the Kuskopfs who were part of the first White settlers in Australia. It was later renamed Palmwoods after the Piccabeen Palm Groves growing in the area. Palmwoods has a small town feel popular among new home buyers. It is situated close to popular family tourist attractions such as The Big Pineapple , Thrill Hill (closed for safety hazards) and Olympia Theme Park (sold off to developers). Located 15 minutes from the beach and the Montville range Palmwoods is nestled between the best of both worlds at the Sunshine Coast. The multimillion dollar renovation of the historical, centrally located pub established in 1902 which recently sold for $11 million has created opportunities for the backpacker industry and the promotion of Palmwoods in the Sunshine Coast region.

The town center is 27 metres above sea level and the surrounding district covers an area of 2300 square kilometres.

The area was originally thickly timbered forests with dense palm scrubs. In 1868, it became the wet weather route for Cobb & Co coaches traveling between Brisbane and the Gympie goldfields, this followed the first white settlers arriving in Palmwoods in 1881.

Palmwoods economy was originally based on timber but evolved into fruit farming over the years. During the 1950’s, Palmwoods was Queensland’s second largest loading center for pineapples and citrus. The focus has since shifted to avocados and strawberries.

Today, Palmwoods is a peaceful country retreat with a patchwork of scenic farms set against the splendid backdrop of the Blackall Range. It is home to growing businesses such as Tropico, Gourmet Garden, a range of cottage industries and a variety of local business and services.