Dr Martina Muller

Historian In Residence 2025

Dr Muller’s first story will focus on those who pioneered the region’s hotel trade, exploring what drove these early publicans, what background they had, and how successful they were with their ventures. She will discuss the known establishments as well as shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked role of female publicans and members of publicans’ families. The second story will investigate why pubs were established in the district and how the roles of these hotels gradually changed over time. Dr Muller’s research will explore how hotels were built in strategic locations to cater for specific purposes and how they adapted to the changing environment, shedding light on the diverse range of customers and patrons who frequented them. The third story examines pubs rising from the ashes and adapting to change; exploring the challenges faced by hotel keepers and how they have adapted to adversity and ever-changing circumstances. Research will include examining the original architecture and design of these historic hotels, the architects behind the buildings, and the reasons why these hotels present themselves as they are today.

Read the outcome of Martina Muller’s Historian in Residence research into Iconic Pubs that shaped the Sunshine Coast.