Queensport Aquarium facts for kids

The Queensport Aquarium was a very special place in Queensland, Australia. Many people think it was Queensland's very first amusement park! It was built in Brisbane, right by the Brisbane River. The Aquarium was open from 1889 to 1901.

What Animals Lived There?

The Queensport Aquarium officially opened on 7 August 1889. It was a big celebration! This amazing place had more than just fish. It was home to many different animals.

Marine Life and Land Animals

Inside the main aquarium, you could see all sorts of sea creatures. These ranged from playful seals to large sharks. But the fun didn't stop there! The park also had a collection of land animals. You could see powerful tigers, a rare black Java panther, and a speedy cheetah. There were also bears and lots of monkeys.

Birds and Reptiles

The Queensport Aquarium was also home to many beautiful birds. Visitors could admire colorful parrots and cockatoos. There were also pigeons, doves, and English finches. Even black swans were part of the collection. For those who liked slithery creatures, there were various reptiles too.

Fun and Entertainment at the Aquarium

Seeing the animals was just one part of the excitement at Queensland's first theme park. The Queensport Aquarium offered much more to its visitors.

Music and Shows

The park had a huge concert hall. Inside, there was a large organ that played music for guests. Concerts were held every Saturday and Sunday afternoon. There was even an "Aquarium Band." They would play music for the best singers in Brisbane.

Boosting the Area

The Aquarium quickly made the area very popular. Land nearby was even divided up and sold. This new area was called "The Queensport Aquarium Estate."

How People Visited the Aquarium

Most visitors arrived at the Aquarium by boat. The Aquarium Company had its own wharf in the center of Brisbane city.

Steamer Trips

Visiting the Aquarium was often a package deal. You could take a steamer boat like the Natone, the Woolwich, or the Alice. A return ticket cost two shillings for adults. Children could travel for just one shilling.

Evening Fun

Moonlit trips to dances in the concert hall were also very popular. The Aquarium was quite modern for its time. It had electric lights, which were connected in September 1889.

Special Events and Challenges

The Queensport Aquarium hosted many exciting events during its time.

Daytime Activities

Special sports days were held to celebrate the New Year. Families also enjoyed picnics on Foundation Day. This day is now known as Australia Day. In May 1891, a hot air balloon ride amazed the crowds.

The Hot Air Balloon Incident

The Brisbane Courier newspaper reported on this event. A person called "Professor Fernandez" made his first balloon flight in Queensland at the Aquarium. It was a thrilling sight! However, the balloon nearly fell into the river. Luckily, it rose again and landed safely.

Facing Floods

The Aquarium managed well during a large flood in 1890. Even though the city wharf was underwater, the park was okay. But a much bigger flood hit on 5 and 6 February 1893. This flood was very damaging. It tore down fences, letting many animals escape. The beautiful gardens were also ruined.

After the Flood

The animals were eventually rescued. However, the building was then mostly used as a dance hall. The Aquarium Company soon advertised the sale of their steamer boats. People still came for picnics and dances. But by the end of the 1800s, the Aquarium was not as popular as it once was. It closed in 1901.