Ellena Street Sculpture: Where Art Meets Industry

Maryborough’s industrious spirit shines brightly in Ellena Street, where an eye-catching sculpture stands as both art and tribute. This industrial masterpiece doesn’t just sit pretty; it tells a story of resilience and innovation, commemorating the industries that transformed Maryborough into a powerhouse of Queensland.

Maryborough-born artist Susie Hansen designed the powerful sculpture in the picturesque street as a tribute to the city’s industry, encompassing everything from shipbuilding and sugar milling to timber and engineering. Each curve, bolt, and angle pay homage to the tools, machinery, and hands that once drove Maryborough’s economy.

It features a fly wheel cut in half which was originally fitted to a single cylinder kynoch suction gas engine in the powerhouse of Walkers Ltd. The tough modern sculpture sheltering cheeky frogs sits beside the majestic precinct of St Paul’s Church with its celebrated bell tower and a superbly harmonised Memorial Hall that is a community hub.

Primary school students designed the pavers for the Ellena Street Pavement Art and Sculpture precinct, with the theme ‘I can find it in Maryborough’. The pavement art offers a vibrant contrast to the steel and add another layer of storytelling about the industries that gave Maryborough its edge.

Perfectly placed within walking distance of local cafés and interesting shops, the Ellena Street block is a one of the most photographed in a city where photo ops are around every corner. It is an ideal spot to pause and take in the unique character of Maryborough. Snap a picture, ponder its significance, or just soak up the creative energy that pulses through this iconic corner of town.

Next time you’re wandering Ellena Street, let this industrial marvel remind you that Maryborough’s past isn’t just preserved—it’s celebrated.