Revealed: Dalby residents name public space dedicated to the beloved Mary Barry

The verdict is in for the new name taking over 120 Cunningham St, as residents of Dalby submit their votes for what they believe is best suited to honour the legendary former owner of the Commercial Hotel.

The Barry family will be attending the Mary Barry Sportsman's Dinner held by Dalby Rugby Union Club in honour of its Patron, Mary Barry, next Saturday.

Residents were asked last year to submit potential names for the development located at the former Commercial Hotel site which was owned by the beloved Mary Barry.

Plans for the 120 Cunningham St project were approved by Western Downs Regional Council in 2020 after members of the community suggested more greenery, shade and shelter and a way of remembering Mary be established at the site.

Council’s deliberations concluded last week with the official name being decided, with the park to be known as Mary’s Place.

Mayor Paul McVeigh said the site had significant history to the town and will now be a place people can relax and enjoy each other’s company.

The former Commercial Hotel owner Mary Barry will be remembered throughout the 120 Cunningham St project.

“Mary was incredibly well regarded and respected by the community for her friendly and welcoming hospitality, and for the dedication and support she showed for her community,” he said.

“This name will forever recognise an important local character, as well as a location that many locals would have fond memories of, some of whom may recall referring to the pub as ‘Mary’s’.”

Council said they received and considered 162 suggestions for the project’s name before settling on a recommendation that best suited the site.

Councillor Megan James said the next step of the development would be gathering stories from Dalby residents about Mary Barry and Mary’s Commercial Hotel.

Concept art of the 120 Cunningham St project, Dalby. Picture: WDRC

“We want to capture any treasured memories or reflections people may have of Mary and her pub to create a lasting tribute at the location, telling the story of the impact Mary had upon the Dalby community and visitors to our town,” she said.

“A story which can be enjoyed by travellers and generations to come.”

People who have a memory of Mary Barry and the Commercial Hotel can submit can submit their story using the WDRC 120 Cunningham St online form.

Progress made on the 120 Cunningham St development, November 2022. Picture: WDRC

In May last year, New State Builder’s director Tony Carmichael expressed his gratitude to take on the project and have the responsibility of bringing it to life.

“Being local, we understand the importance of this block of land with the iconic Commercial Hotel and Mary Barry, and to have the opportunity to do something in your own community is always something to feel proud of,” he said.