Bridges and Ferries, Published 4 January 2026
The Moggill Ferry: A River Legend!
Did you know the Moggill Ferry has been carrying locals across the Brisbane River since the 1870s? Back then, it was nothing more than a rowboat run by Henry Stanley, a lucerne farmer, before upgrading to a timber punt big enough for a horse and dray. Imagine the patience needed to cross the river by hand-pulled rope!
By the 1940s, the ferry was motorised, making life easier for miners, farmers, and families who relied on it daily. Over time, it grew into a cable-guided ferry capable of carrying cars - today it can haul up to 20 vehicles per trip. It’s not just transport; it’s a moving piece of Queensland history.
Of course, the river has its moods. During floods, the ferry often has to stop service, and in the 2011 floods, it even broke free from its cable - a dramatic reminder of nature’s power.Yet, like the community it serves, the ferry always bounces back.
So next time you drive onto the Moggill Ferry, remember you’re boarding more than a boat - you’re stepping into 150 years of local history. From rowboats to modern cable ferries, it’s a story of resilience, connection, and a little bit of Queensland charm.
Colourised Photos Generated from B&W Photos: State Library Queensland, Public Domain
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