John Oxley Memorial Stone, Unknown Pioneers Monument & Riverside Expressway Opening Plaque

Deep within the heart of Brisbane, a silent tribute stands, etched in stone and shrouded in history. The John Oxley Memorial Stone, Unknown Pioneers Monument & Riverside Expressway Opening Plaque whispers tales of exploration, hardship, and the birth of a city. We stand before a monument that captures a pivotal moment. It commemorates John Oxley’s landing on September 28, 1824, a search for water that led to the discovery of the site that would become Brisbane. The John Oxley Memorial Stone itself bears a simple inscription: “Here John Oxley landed to look for water discovered the site of this city 28th September 1824.” Yet, this seemingly straightforward statement has sparked debate and historical investigation. Oxley, Surveyor General of New South Wales, embarked on an expedition up the Brisbane River. He had previously explored the river in 1823 and had recommended Redcliffe Point for the first settlement. However, his 1824 journey was intended to explore further and find a suitable site along the river itself. His diaries recount the difficult conditions. The region was gripped by a severe drought. The river was low, and the landscape parched. On September 27th, Oxley’s party camped near what is now Milton, expecting to find fresh water. They were unsuccessful. The next morning, they rowed further downriver. They landed near Western Creek. Oxley’s diary entry describes the location as “a chain of ponds watering a fine valley.” This seemingly idyllic description becomes even more poignant. It happened amidst the harsh realities of the drought. The exact location of these ponds remains a subject of ongoing discussion. Some believe they were situated near present-day Frew Park or Gregory Park, while others suggest they were further upstream, closer to Government House. The John Oxley Memorial Stone stands as a testament to this pivotal moment. The Unknown Pioneers Monument, located nearby at North Quay, adds another layer of meaning to this place. It pays tribute to the unnamed individuals who perished during the early years of the Moreton Bay settlement. Their final resting place, near this spot, underscores the hardships faced by those who first ventured into this land. The Riverside Expressway Opening Plaque, commemorating the modern development of Brisbane, completes a historical trilogy. It marks the transformation of the city from a small penal colony to a thriving metropolis. These three monuments intertwine past, present, and future. They bear witness to the enduring spirit of exploration and resilience. The John Oxley Memorial Stone, Unknown Pioneers Monument & Riverside Expressway Opening Plaque invite us to reflect on the journey of Brisbane. From its humble beginnings as a penal colony, to its growth into the vibrant city it is today. They stand as a reminder of the human stories embedded in the very fabric of this landscape.