A special treat awaits visitors to the Mary Poppins Festival this year with the doors to a new Story Bank at the birthplace of author P.L. Travers to be thrown open for the first time.
Festival goers will get a sneak peek at the interpretive centre in historic Maryborough, three hours' drive north of Brisbane, ahead of its official opening later in the year.
People will be able to discover the art of storytelling through displays, activities and exhibitions in the heritage-listed building.
The author was born in the former Australian Joint Stock Bank in the Heritage City's central business district in 1899.
The stately building was purchased by Fraser Coast Regional Council in 2015 and is undergoing a $1.5 million refurbishment with grant funds from the Australian Government's Community Development Grants Program, the Queensland Government's Building Our Regions Funding and council.
Its link to the author is already highlighted by pedestrian lights featuring fun silhouettes of the world's most famous fictional nanny just outside along with a bronze statue of the beloved character and metal cut-outs of the iconic carpet bag and brolly for people to pose with in photos.
Organiser of the Mary Poppins Festival Robyn Peach, of Fraser Coast Tourism and Events, said the first look inside the Story Bank would be a highlight of the lively festival which runs from June 29 until July 8.
She said another exciting addition to this year's event would be the ultimate kids' party hosted by comedian and actor Sean Murphy.
“He'll take children and adults on a hilarious journey to create their own excitement, without screen time,” Mrs Peach said.
Other highlights of Queensland's most whimsical event are readings, workshops and book signings by Justin D'Ath, author of the Extreme Adventure series, and an exhibition by Kate Knapp, author of the Ruby Red Shoes children's book series.
“A chalk artist will fill the imaginations of all ages in Maryborough Parklands and children's workshops and activities will be aplenty,” Mrs Peach said.
“The historic Portside precinct transforms into the scenes of Cherry Tree Lane during the festival's major celebration A Day in the Park on July 7.
“Magic will fill the air as the novel comes alive. Admiral Boom will fire his time cannon throughout the day and that's just the beginning of the charming fun.
“Festival goers can watch or join in the grand parade, chimney sweep challenge and nanny race.
“There will also be art on the footpath, street theatre, fun workshops and more.”
For more details about what's brewing, visit marypoppinsfestival.com.au.
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