MORE volunteers are needed to support a part of Logan’s pioneer past, now preserved for the future, at historic Mayes Cottage.
Logan lifestyle and community committee chair councillor Steve Swenson said Mayes Cottage House Museum offered excellent volunteering opportunities.
“If you enjoy bringing local history to life for our community, why not volunteer at the heritage-listed Mayes Cottage?” Cr Swenson said.
“You can make a difference by working with children, families and seniors, guiding them through a rare and educational experience important for all generations to learn about and appreciate.
“We are looking for energetic, inquisitive individuals of all ages to enjoy this unique volunteering experience.”
A National Trust listed property, maintained by Logan City Council, Mayes Cottage House Museum was preserved for the community in the late 1970s. It opens free to the public, Thursdays to Saturdays from 10.30am to 4pm.
“Mayes Cottage is a fascinating location that offers the opportunity to explore a unique part of Logan’s heritage,” Cr Swenson said.
“It gives people an insight into how the city’s early residents lived as the cottage remains as it was when it was first built.
“The house – and what remains of the slab hut that stands outside – are originals, not reproductions. We are lucky to have this preserved for the future.”
John and Emily Mayes and their two small children, Joshua and Ruth, arrived in Brisbane from England in July 1871. They lived in a slab hut while they constructed the home they would call Pleasant Place, moving in early 1887.
In 1974, the Queensland Housing Commission bought the Mayes’ estate, with the exception house and 2,198 square metres of gardens.
In 1978, the Housing Commission tried to resume the house but a local action group stormed parliament in protest.
After a drawn out campaign to save the property, it was declared a reserve for park and recreation in 1979 with Albert Shire Council as trustees.
At the time, there was no heritage legislation in Queensland and the property was saved because of the value of the vegetation rather than the house.
Cr Swenson said Mayes Cottage was often used for community events that celebrated Australia’s past.
The grounds feature beautiful gardens and trees including mango trees – some are 120 years old – that were planted by Mayes family members.
In May, the cottage hosted activities for the Australian Heritage Festival and National Archaeology Week. One of the most popular activities included family friendly hands-on archaeology sessions with experienced volunteers.
National History Month will be celebrated throughout the month of August at Mayes Cottage.
- Family history workshops will be held at the cottage Thursdays from 10.30am to noon and 1.30pm to 3pm through the month of August
- To inquire about volunteering at Mayes phone 3412 4147 (weekdays only) or emailing council@logan.qld.gov.au
- Under the Trees at Mayes will be held as part of the ImagiNation Children’s Festival on October 5 from 10.30am to 1.30pm
- Find Mayes Cottage at 20 Mawarra St, Kingston. It opens Thursdays to Saturdays from 10.30am to 4pm
