Bribie Island Seaside Museum opened on 14 May 2010 at 1 South Esplanade, Bongaree, on the Pumicestone Passage side of Bribie Island, in the City of Moreton Bay, Queensland, Australia.
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It is operated by City of Moreton Bay.
The Queensland Government contributed $1 million to the museum’s construction through the Q150 Legacy Infrastructure program [1] .
The purpose-built museum features a contemporary design with naturally lit interiors, dark ceilings and a façade of timber slats that frame views of the surrounding landscape and beach. A micro-cinema accommodates around 10 seated visitors with additional standing room, plays videos including stories from First Nations Elders, and films about the S.S. Koopa (1911–1953). The main reception area includes the museum shop.
The museum showcases permanent displays which celebrate the island’s rich and diverse history including Bribie Island’s important role during World War II and insights into the life and work of internationally renowned artist Ian Fairweather. Additionally, the venue has a temporary exhibition space, which hosts a diverse suite of touring and in-house exhibitions every year, and an Imaginarium, an immersive intergenerational activity space for all ages [2] .
During her visit in August 2010, Queensland Local Government Minister Desley Boyle suggested Bribie Island was arguably the birthplace of Queensland's tourism industry, referring to the steam ship Koopa's regular run to the island carrying 800 passengers.
Today, visitors can explore the intriguing and unique history of the island through various immersive, interactive displays and a variety of exciting events and workshops. The Bribie Island Seaside Museum offers a scenic and engaging destination close to the waterfront, overlooking the iconic Pumicestone Passage [3] .
