Driving
New Italy to Maryborough
Updated: 26 May 2026
The journey from New Italy to Maryborough spans approximately 420 kilometers along the Pacific Motorway. You will cross the state border at the Tweed Heads region before heading north through Brisbane. The route is primarily dual-carriageway, offering a smooth drive through coastal hinterlands. Expect a travel time of roughly 5 hours depending on traffic congestion near the Gold Coast. This route connects the historic Italian settlement of New Italy to the heritage-rich city of Maryborough.
Total Distance: 420 km driving distance; 385 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via the M1 and Bruce Highway takes 5 hours without major stops.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this distance.
Compare New Italy to Maryborough Routes
Driving
Direct
Duration
5 hours
Avg Price
80-120 AUD
Operator
Personal Vehicle
Route
M1 Pacific Motorway through Brisbane to Bruce Highway.
Avoid peak hour traffic in Brisbane between 7 AM and 9 AM.
Travel Tips
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Fuel StopsRefuel at major service centers in Ballina or Logan to avoid higher prices in remote stretches.
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TollsEnsure your vehicle has an active e-tag for the Gateway Motorway toll bridge in Brisbane.
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Rest BreaksStop at the Yatala service center for a quick break and famous meat pies.
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NavigationDownload offline maps as mobile reception can be patchy in rural sections near the border.
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TrafficCheck the Live Traffic NSW and QLD Traffic websites before departing.
Safety Tips
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FatigueTake a 15-minute break every two hours to maintain alertness.
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WildlifeBe cautious of kangaroos at dawn and dusk, especially on rural roads.
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WeatherCheck for flood warnings during the summer months when heavy rain is common.
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Speed CamerasAdhere strictly to speed limits as mobile cameras are frequent on the M1.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Maryborough?Yes, but you must travel to Brisbane first and transfer to a Queensland Rail service.
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How long is the drive?The drive typically takes 5 hours under normal traffic conditions.
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Are there tolls on this route?Yes, the Gateway Motorway in Brisbane is a toll road.
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What is the best route?The M1 Pacific Motorway is the most direct and efficient route.
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Can I fly?There are no direct commercial flights between New Italy and Maryborough.
Quick Info
- From New Italy, New South Wales, Australia
- To Maryborough, Queensland, Australia
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
April to October for mild temperatures and lower humidity.
Things to Do in Maryborough
1
New Italy Museum
Explore the history of Italian migrants in the Northern Rivers region. It features a cafe and historical park.
2
Maryborough Military Museum
View extensive collections of war memorabilia. It is located in a heritage-listed building.
3
Queens Park
Walk through one of the oldest botanical gardens in Queensland. It features a historic bandstand.
4
Portside Heritage Precinct
Visit the wharf area where Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers was born. It offers a glimpse into colonial history.
Tags
New Italy to Maryborough drive
M1 highway travel
driving from NSW to QLD
Maryborough travel guide
Pacific Motorway route
New Italy road trip
Queensland coastal driving
traveling to Maryborough
