The women’s loo at the Cistern Chapel in Maryborough, Qld
Is the Cistern Chapel in Maryborough, Qld, Australia’s most elaborate public loo?
Who would have thought that going to the loo could be such an uplifting experience? Not us, that’s for sure. But when travelling along the Fraser Coast, through the friendly and historic Queensland city of Maryborough, even if you don’t need to go to the toilet, you simply must stop for a visit at Maryborough City Hall.
It was in 2020 when the community rallied together to donate funds to what started as the ‘Divine Dunnies’, a project transforming the humble public toilets on the side of the picturesque City Hall to become the finest toilets in Australia. It was former editor of the local newspaper, Nancy Bates, who had the grand vision, but she didn’t simply want a “new lick of paint”. She wanted something that would set these toilets apart from any others.
A spectacular entrance to the Cistern Chapel, Maryborough
Artists Akos Juhasz and Gary Madden were the two creators who brought Nancy’s vision to life, and their murals incorporate Maryborough’s colourful history, local culture, fauna, flora with a big dash of quirky humour. Opened in 2022 and bringing thousands of visitors to the town, the flashy loos, open daily from 9am to 4pm are a huge drawcard. Inside it’s a fun and creative nod to Michaelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in Italy with its floor to ceiling paintings. It’s free to enter, there’s usually no queue and you’re guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face.
We spoke to passionate volunteers Carmel and Toni, or “flusher ushers” as they’re affectionately known, two local women who clearly love their town. “There’s no one in there darlin’,” says Toni, “you can go into the men’s. Take a good look at the door of the male loo”. We found out later it’s a self-portrait of one of the artists.
A flashy flusher at the Cistern Chapel of Maryborough
Walking in, I was in awe and every second word was “wow”. It’s like walking into a gallery with vibrant quirky 3D paintings everywhere you look. Throughout the women’s, the men’s, the baby change room and disabled toilets elaborate artwork will blow your mind. They’re almost too good to use but they are indeed fully functional. There are crystal chandeliers above you and classical music to get you in the mood.
Chandeliers and classical music
High ceilings and heritage character, with 3D effects create a unique experience. Handel’s Water Music collection plays in the men’s area and there’s chamber music in the women’s rooms. Birdsong and counting games are in the parents room which has a nod to the Mary Poppins theme. It feels like you’re in some sort of quirky, high society theatre. Of course, the ladies loo is complete with a golden throne.
The gold toilet throne
We spoke to Carmel and Toni afterwards and I found out Carmel was instrumental in the promoting of the town and the Cistern Chapel. She told us how in past years and festivals she’s dressed up as Mary Poppins, umbrella and all, donned in full period costume.
Flusher Ushers Toni and Carmel
The Cistern Chapel is only one part of the Maryborough Mural Trail that extends over eight city blocks in Maryborough’s CBD, 40 vibrant canvases covering city buildings, adding to the unique character of this place. Stay close by at the free 48-hour RV rest area (abide by all rules and restrictions), which is within walking distance to City Hall and all its wonderful stores and cafes. It’s also close to the popular Maryborough Rotary Marks held each Thursday in nearby Queen’s Park. There are characters roaming around in period costume and at 1pm a vintage time cannon booms across the city, reminding market goers of a bygone era when the cannon was used to set the time for the town’s residents.
Maryborough CBD on market day
Whether you stay for a week or simply stop for a wee this place is an absolute must see while travelling through Queensland’s Fraser Coast. It’s quirky and creative, unexpected and unique and quite possibly the finest loo you’ll ever use.
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