Welcome to Bushwalking in Brisbane Forest Park


This blog is devoted to the different walks I have completed in Brisbane Forest Park. Here I will share my photos and personal experiences, explaining the many different walks within the Park and some of the interesting features of each walk. Brisbane Forest Park is now known as the region of South D'Aguilar National Park, but for the purpose of this blog and my own connection and history with the Park, I still refer to it as Brisbane Forest Park.

Brisbane Forest Park lies northwest of Brisbane, at most an hour's drive from the CBD. The entire Park encompasses approximately 36,000 hectares of natural land and forest consisting of national park, recreational areas and tourist spots that attract day trippers, motorcyclists and those wishing to experience the magic of a rainforest retreat or just enjoy a getaway in the mountains.

The Park is full of interesting features such as creeks, rocky outcrops, mountains, waterfalls, plants, birds and other wildlife which makes it such a diverse and natural place to visit and enjoy.

The walks I will share in this Blog range from easy to quite challenging, but above all are fun to do. Please feel free to send me any of your comments.

Hope you like these as much as I did.

Happy walking :)

Wayne

Please note: The walks described within should be used as a guide only and carrying a topographic map, compass, water, food and a first aid kit is highly recommended when bushwalking. Only undertake walks within your own limits and fitness levels. Please be responsible by notifying a friend or family member before beginning any walk.
Showing posts with label creek. Show all posts
Showing posts with label creek. Show all posts

Saturday, September 13, 2014

Archer Campground, Mount Mee section


Archer campground is one of two camping areas located in the northern section of Brisbane Forest Park (D'Aguilar), more popularly known as Mount Mee. Archers has 9 campsites to choose from, each have a firepit and are situated beside a creek. The campground has toilet facilities and there is tank water usually available. Archers campground can be accessed via Woodford by car, access to Mount Mee is by 4WD only. The other campsite, Neurum Creek, has 13 campsites and is 6.3kms from the southern access to the Park (Mount Mee) or 13.5kms from the Northern access (Woodford). It can be easily confused with 'Neurum Bush Retreat' a privately owned and operated campground nearby.


'Broadwater' is a swimming hole situated not far from the campsite which has a toilet and a rest area.



Please note: There are no official graded walking tracks at Archers Campground. For more info on bushwalking and camping in Mount Mee, please copy and paste the following web links into your browser:

http://www.nprsr.qld.gov.au/parks/daguilar/pdf/mount-mee-trail-map.pdf

http://www.qld.gov.au

Sunday, July 13, 2014

Gold Creek Dam via Payne Road


This walk begins overlooking Enoggera Dam, off the Payne Road/Gap Creek Road roundabout at the Gap. It is about a 5 hour leisurely walk and access is via South Boundary Road, an unsealed management road which runs along a southerly ridge all the way to Mount Nebo. Being situated adjacent to a residential area, South Boundary Road is very popular with cyclists, runners, bushwalkers and those even riding on horseback. The road is mostly flat but has some hilly sections to negotiate along the way, however only moderate fitness is required. To access the Dam, simply walk along South Boundary Road for about 2 hours, then take the left turn off South Boundary Road immediately after reaching the overhead electricity pylons. It is then about a half hour walk down to the Dam.


The Dam has an unusual spillway which was damaged during floods in early 1890. It was replaced by an un-reinforced concrete stepped spillway, the first of its type in the world. Most of the 1890 concrete stepped spillway cascade is still in use.


The Dam is a great place to explore, with a number of footworn tracks to the right of and above the spillway. There are grassy areas below the Dam to sit and relax and just take it all in. Gold Creek Dam is very peaceful and scenic place to visit and enjoy and if travelling by car, vehicle access to the Dam is via Gold Creek Road from Brookfield.


It is also possible to walk all the way to Mount Nebo Road, or even undertake an overnight walk, camping at South Boundary Road at the corner of Scrub Road, then returning the following day. South Boundary Road is one of the main management roads in the Park and is an excellent access route for other bushwalking pursuits in D'Aguilar National Park.

For more information please go to the relevant postings on this site.

Tuesday, April 29, 2014

England Creek Bush Camp via Joyner's Ridge Road.


England Creek bush camp is located between two ridges, Joyner's Ridge Road and Lawnton Road, which extend westward from Mount Glorious Road. In conjunction with England Creek Road, this route is also known as the 'Aquila Loop' and is popular with both bushwalkers and mountain bike riders.

The walk along Joyner's Ridge Road to England Creek starts at the management road gate, adjacent to 'Miala' a busy picnic ground further along Mount Glorious Road. From here the walk to the bush camp is approximately 10kms and can be completed in about 3-4 hours, depending on rest stops and rate of travel. The start of the walk begins in a section of lush rainforest before opening up to sclerophyll forest, with spectacular views of the surrounding Park, including Northbrook mountain and further West towards Wivenhoe and Toowoomba. There are some interesting features along the walk including birdlife, rocky outcrops and a variety of plant species. Bellbirds can be heard echoeing their distinctive 'tinkling' sounds in the surrounding trees and Lace Monitors can often be spotted if not heard, rustling in the leafy undergrowth of the trees bordering the track.


The walk to England Creek is fairly easy going and the road gradually descends to the catchment below, however there are some uphill sections to negotiate just before the campsite is reached. It should be noted here that on return the ascent to Mount Glorious can become long and tiresome, especially when carrying a heavy backpack! After about 7kms or so, turn right (left turn will take you down to England Creek Right Branch. Please see other relevant posts on this Blog) at the intersection and follow 'England Creek Road' for about 1.5 hours. Mobile reception on the flat stretch of road just before you reach the campsite is relatively good here.


My friend and I recently camped here and upon arriving at the campsite, noticed it had been maintained since our last visit. Prior to this, the tent sites had been left in poor condition and were overgrown with weeds and there were some old rotting logs hastily arranged around a firepit. The condition of the campsite has dramatically improved since then and the old logs have been replaced with much larger logs sculpted into benches to sit on and there are two distinctive areas to pitch tents with minimal weed infestation. The creek crossing appears to have been severely damaged possibly by the 2010 flood, as part of the concrete slab has been washed a bit further downstream.


England Creek Bush Camp is for those looking for that authentic remote bush camping experience. After walking for a few hours the creek is immediately inviting and the campsite awaits for complete rest and relaxation. The night we stayed at the campsite it was very pleasant with very few mosquitoes and the temperature was mild and fairly comfortable at night, but a bit cooler the next morning. It wasn't cold enough to light a fire and also due to possible fire restrictions, we decided to use a portable gas stove and billy instead. Later that night we were greeted by some very bright stars (as well as an unexpected 'drive-by' from someone driving a Landcruiser - possibly a Park Ranger) and when the moon rose in the sky, the stars disappeared and the light from the moon cast an unusual 'glow' on the surrounding trees. The creek was quite low, however it was enough to take a dip, which was a great way to freshen up for the return walk the next morning!


What I think makes England Creek Bush Camp so memorable and unique is the location and the peaceful surroundings. The gentle, soothing sound of water running past in the creek lulled me straight off to sleep in my tent! A special place to camp and just take it all in.

Sunday, December 30, 2012

Dundas Road circuit walk via Goodes Road

This walk begins at the Mount Nebo Transfer Station and returns via a fire break. It should be noted here that this walk should only be undertaken by experienced bushwalkers, as there are some steep sections to negotiate up until Goodes Road.

Walk twenty minutes or so to the Dundas Road campsite and at the crossroads, do not detour but continue walking straight ahead along Dundas Road. About half an hour or so you will reach a fork in the road and a D'Aguilar Park sign, marking the region of Cabbage Tree Range. Take the right fork in the road and shortly after you will come to a gate. Turn right and begin descent down the fire break. The break has some very loose gravel and is very steep in sections, so extreme care is required until you reach the creek below. Allow at least a good half hour to an hour for descent.

At the creek the track picks up again and climbs steeply up the range. This section requires very good fitness. At the top the track widens to become Goodes Road. There are some great views here of the surrounding Park.


Be sure to turn right not left after you reach the pylons. Follow the remaining track which is an easy walk back to the campsite. Allow at least 3 hours to complete this walk.

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Branch Creek via Cabbage Tree Range


This walk begins from behind the Mount Nebo Transfer station off Mount Nebo Road and includes the catchment area around Lake Manchester. This walk overall is not difficult but is rather long and can prove tiresome with some ascent required upon return. There are a number of hiking trails and explorative opportunities along this walk so a topographic map is recommended but not essential, as the routes described are well signposted.

Follow Dundas Road for approx 20 mins until you reach the campsite and crossroads. Take Cabbage Tree Range road and follow this for about 2 hours down to the upper section of Branch Creek. There is a few options to consider here; either take the much shorter "Job 6 Break" road back up to Light Line Road,which is also known as the "Cabbage Tree Range loop." There is also the opportunity to camp at the Light Line Road camping site or simply cross the creek and follow Branch Creek Road to Lake Manchester and stay overnight at the campsite there instead. I returned the same way I walked down to Branch Creek which I found a bit tiresome, being mostly an uphill climb back to Dundas Road, so it may be more ideal to do the Loop walk and leave another car at the gate, at the end of Forestry Road in Mount Nebo.

Another idea is for two walking parties to take two seperate cars, one group drive to Lake Manchester and the other park at the gate at Dundas Road. Both parties walk in towards each other and meet at Branch Creek.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

Lake Manchester circuit walk


Lake Manchester is a water catchment facility situated in the south-western corner of Brisbane Forest Park (D'Aguilar National Park) It lies just North of Ipswich on the outskirts of Kholo. To get to Lake Manchester, simply follow Lake Manchester Road which is mostly sealed road.


Lake Manchester Dam was completed in 1916 and named after Mr E.J. Manchester, president of the Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board. Originally the Dam was called "Cabbage Tree Creek Dam." The Dam was reactivated in 2005 when the Brisbane drought was at a critical point and upgraded in 2007 for security and safety purposes.


Lake Manchester provides popular leisure activities such as bushwalking, mountain biking, horse riding and bush camping. There are a number of interesting features such as views of the Lake and surrounding mountains, including the peaks and ranges outside Ipswich. Cabbage Tree Creek and Branch Creek flow into Lake Manchester and are quite pleasant to visit.


The circuit walk is approximately 17km long and was completed in just over 5 hours. It begins at the car park and crosses the creek downstream from the Dam wall. The walk is accessed by a vehicular dirt track that winds it's way through bushland and traverses the surrounding foothills and ranges of Brisbane Forest Park. The route intersects with other Park Management roads, including Branch Creek Road and Light Line Road. There are many routes to consider therefore explorative opportunities in this region are virtually endless.


From the map at the carpark it is easy to assume this walking trail concludes at the car park, however it actually ends up at the T-intersection of Lake Manchester and Kholo Roads, therefore the remaining part of the walk is along bitumen road to get back to the car park. Overall the walk is fairly easy going, however there are some creek crossings to negotiate and steep sections of the track that can be tiresome. It is best completed in a clockwise direction, the route described is as follows:
"North Lake Manchester Road" - "Light Line Road" - "South Lake Manchester Road".

Other walks from BFP that connect Lake Manchester, among others, are via "South Boundary Road" and "Cabbage Tree Creek Road"(please refer to relevant posts on this site). To access the bush campsite, walk anti-clockwise starting at the T-intersection of Lake Manchester and Kholo Road and walk for approximately 6kms until you reach the campsite and Cabbage Tree Creek. For the first 100 metres or so the track is heavily eroded and extremely muddy.

The circuit route described is well signposted, however a map is recommended to assist with orienteering your desired route and calculating rate of travel. For those who want do a shorter walk but do not wish to complete the full circuit, simply follow North Lake Manchester Road for a few kilometres, then take one of 3-4 diversions that turn left from the main track. These meet with Cabbage Tree Range which eventually leads back to the carpark. If completing the full circuit, allow a full day for rest breaks and to explore the surrounding area.

Saturday, March 17, 2012

Cabbage Tree Creek via South Boundary Road (circuit walk)

This walk explores the catchment area around Lake Manchester and was completed as a circuit walk, starting at the Mount Nebo end of South Boundary Road. It is approximately 17km in total and requires some basic map reading skills to track progress. It is not 'hard' in the bushwalking 'scheme of things,' however it is quite a long walk and there is some endurance required, therefore I have classified the walk as 'Moderate to Difficult.'

Follow the track from Mount Nebo for about 1.5km then turn right into Augies Road, following this downhill. After about an hour or so you will reach a water tank on the right, then a T-junction. Turn right here and descend to the main branch of Cabbage Creek. There are numerous creek crossings along this stretch of the track which may be difficult to cross if the creek is flowing well, however did not present any problem when I visited earlier this year. Several kilometres south the creek widens and meets with Lake Manchester.

Upon ascent, turn right at the T-junction into Creek Road which leads downhill to the East branch of Cabbage Tree Creek. After the creek crossing it is a relatively steep climb back to South Boundary road. There is also the option to camp at the intersection of Scrub Road and South Boundary Road after completing this walk. For more info on South Boundary Road, please refer to similar posts on this site.

An alternative walk is to start at Mount Nebo, finishing at Lake Manchester,two cars left at either end of the walk. There is also the opportunity to explore surrounding areas such as Mermaid Mountain and Gold Creek.



Wednesday, January 18, 2012

South Boundary Road to Jolly's Lookout (circuit walk)

This walk is an alternative to the circuit walks around "Boombana" and for those who wish to explore the surrounding area and don't mind the idea of walking off-track. Long pants and a long sleeve shirt would be recommended due to the 'scratchy' nature of this terrain.

The walk begins at South Boundary Road. After walking approx. 1.5kms turn sharp left. (opposite turnoff to Augies Road) where the remnants of an old track can be found. It is easygoing at first but then overgrown along sections. There are some obstacles to negotiate along the way,such as fallen trees and some lantana, but hopefully this will not deter exploration only thwart progress.

It is a great 'starter' walk for those wishing to get used to off-track walking, with the feeling you are safe following a track. It's also an ideal way to practice some basic bush navigation. The region of D'Aguilar Range is abundant with plant and animal life and is an interesting place to explore. Within a short space of time I observed a Lace Monitor, Wallaby, Green Tree snake and a rather angry and surprised Carpet Python which I nearly stepped on!

The track winds it's way through different vegetation types and crosses two tributaries of Enoggera Creek. A map and compass are required to locate the circuit track near Jolly's lookout, which virtually 'touches' the edge of the track on the BFP topographic map. Once located this can be followed to Jolly's Lookout or Boombana, the latter eventually intersecting with South Boundary Road.

Alternatively, continue along the track towards Mount Nebo Road. At the time of descent there was severe Lantana infestation on either side of the track, however the route was feasible. This is a very eroded and steep section to negotiate and stinging nettle can be found at the bottom of the track near Mount Nebo road, so care is required. Once at the creek crossing, simply walk up to the road and walk back towards Jolly's Lookout.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Love Creek Falls

There are a number of different ways to access Love Creek Falls, however the most obvious route will only be explained in this post. Only confident bushwalkers should attempt this walk as there are a number of waterfalls to negotiate along the creek, therefore experience with rock scrambling is essential. This walk can be quite slow and challenging due to the slippery nature of the terrain, so extreme care should be taken at all times.

Turn right onto Alex Road about 1km or so from Mount Glorious and at the car park, simply descend into the creek and follow it all the way downstream. There are a number of watefalls, rock pools and interesting palm groves along the creek which flows well after prior rain. Once at the falls, there are breathtaking views of the valley below. For those willing to explore the surrounding area, there are a number of other routes to consider that follow old logging trails which connect with Greene's Falls and Maiala picnic ground.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Mount Glorious to England Creek (Right Branch) via Joyner's Ridge Road



This walk explores one of the main catchment areas of Brisbane Forest Park - England Creek. The walk features some spectacular views of the surrounding park from various spots along Joyner's Ridge Road. It should be noted here that this walk is approx. 18kms in length, therefore good fitness is required and plenty of food and water should be taken with you. Allow at least 6 hours to complete this walk.

The walk to England Creek (Right Branch)starts at the gate/track on the left hand side of Mount Glorious Road, between the Miala motorcycle cafe and Miala picnic ground further up Mount Glorious road. Walk down the stairs and after passing the sign that reads Joyner's Ridge Road, follow the track for about 7.5kms until it arrives at crossroads. At this junction there is the option to walk either straight ahead around a locked gate, turn right to go down to England Creek (Left Branch) or turn left (Right Branch). At the time of this walk the track to go to the left branch of England Creek appeared to be closed off, a sign displaying 'Road Closed' at the junction.

Take the left hand turn and follow this down for about 1.5kms. Just before arriving at the creek the track splits into two. Take either the left fork or walk straight ahead to walk down to the creek. From here, either rockhop up and down the creek but if venturing downstream please be aware that downstream of the creek flows through private land. At the time we visited the creek there were many visible signs there had been severe flooding in this area, most likely caused by the floods earlier this year. This would have been quite impressive as trees growing in the creek as much as 10 feet high were pushed over and large, uprooted trees had been carried all the way downstream. Upon further exploration upstream there appeared to be only tiny rock pools with small rapids, so those wishing to swim here should visit after sufficient rainfall.

To embark from the creek there are a few different routes to consider. Two tracks on the east bank of the creek lead to Mount Nebo Road, the most southerly track winding it's way up towards Dundas Road and eventually leading to the Mount Nebo transfer station. However this route is very steep in ascent but does become easier once you reach the electricity pylons. The other route to Mount Nebo Road becomes quite overgrown toward the top of the ridge(as observed from a previous attempt to descend into the catchment from a track near Mount Nebo Road) but if this is not an issue, this route is fairly feasible. However once again, there are some steep sections to negotiate upon ascent.

Another alternative is to follow the creek upstream to Mount Glorious. This however may prove quite difficult and tiresome and therefore be suitable for more advanced bushwalkers, not only due to thick infestation of lantana and the overall steepness and rugged nature of this terrain but also the need for navigational skills to find the correct route to ascend the slope to Joyner's Ridge Road. The obvious and most easiest return route is the one initially described, but in reverse.

I found this walk overall did not pose that much difficulty. The route is not very steep but can be tiresome at times upon ascent, given it is an 8km return walk from the creek back to Mount Glorious. However the advantage of this walk is that elevation that is lost is gradually regained over a longer distance, therefore it is not as tiring as say another track that would be shorter and therefore steeper in ascent. There is some respite on the flatter graded sections to catch your breath on the way back.

Saturday, September 4, 2010

South Boundary Road to Scrub Road



This is a very easy but satisfying walk through the forest, being mostly flat-graded track. The walk departs from the side of Mount Nebo Road and winds it's way through the Southern 'back country' of Brisbane Forest Park. The route visits some interesting places along the way including Enoggera Creek and offers some views of the surrounding ranges. It is frequently used by mountain bikers who cycle all the way from Gap Creek Road to Mount Nebo, about a 22km ride one way.

There is camping available at the intersection of South Boundary and Scrub Road and access to Enoggera Creek is possible by walking along Scrub Road until you reach the creek crossing. (For more info on camping, please visit the 'D'agulair National Park' link I have listed at the bottom right hand side column of my blog). It is also possible to walk to Mermaid Mountain, Lake Manchester and Gold Creek from South Boundary Road, making it one of the most interesting and accessible walks in the Brisbane Forest Park.

For information on alternative routes along South Boundary Road, please refer to the list of walks posted on this blog.



Sunday, May 9, 2010

Wivenhoe Lookout to Cedar Flats via Northbrook Parkway



This walk leaves from a gate on a sharp bend of Northbrook Parkway, adjacent to Wivenhoe Lookout. It winds it's way along several ridges before descending to 'Red Cedar' picnic ground, which can be found further down Northbrook Parkway. The route is popular with cross country runners and mountain bikers, who often utilise this track to run and cycle between Cedar Flats and Mount Glorious.

Although this route does not pose much difficulty, there is some navigation required as there are other tracks which veer off in other directions along the management road. A topographic map of Brisbane Forest Park is recommended to navigate and locate the correct route to 'Red Cedar.'

There are some steep sections to negotiate upon descent which can impact quite heavily on the knees and in some sections it may be required to crouch and slide, or run and slide down on your feet. The walk eventually comes to a creek and then the main road, a short walk further along the road will lead to the picnic ground.

It is possible to diverge from the route described to locate 'White Cedar' another popular picnic ground located further along the Parkway. However this route may cross private land, therefore permission may be required to gain access.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

England Creek (Left Branch) via Rocky Outcrop, Joyner's Ridge Road (map & compass required)


This walk is not only an alternative to the obvious and more easier route along England Creek and Joyners Ridge Roads, but also for those who wish to gain skills and confidence with orientation and map reading skills and prefer to go 'off track' and explore England Creek from a different perspective. The walk is a good test of agility and because of the rugged terrain, can be quite challenging at times.

From Joyner's Ridge Road walk approx 1.5hours (from the Mount Glorious end) until a rocky outcrop is found on the right. This is located on the BFP topographic map. From the rocky outcrop a bearing is measured by tracing a line on the map from the rocky outcrop to the crossing at England Creek. Adjust for magnetic variation.

Drop down from the rocky outcrop onto the spur below. This involves scrambling down rocks which are loose and can be dislodged quite easily. The spur is quite steep in descent and the ground is very loose underfoot, therefore it is not uncommon to stumble at least once on the way down!

Eventually a creek bed is found on the left hand side of the spur. Cross this creek bed and contour around to the next spur. Another creek bed is then found and crossed which eventually joins the first creek bed to become one creek. Drop down into this creek and rockhop all the way downstream until you reach the main branch of England Creek. Walk downstream for approx 10 -15 minutes and you will reach the crossing and campsite. To return, walk south up England Creek Road which eventually meets with Joyner's Ridge Road and back to Mount Glorious. Allow a full day for this walk.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Northbrook Gorge via Northbrook Creek


This walk takes in the picturesque Northbrook Creek located in the back country of Brisbane Forest Park. There are several waterholes which you have to swim through to get to the Gorge, which is further up the creek. The walk takes about 1 hour each way. For most of the walk there is a footworn track that is quite visible on both sides of the creek. Care is required negotiating the rocks underfoot.

You will need to make sure everything you bring with you is waterproof. I used a tupperware container for things like my camera and food with plastic bags tied around them, then placed into a backpack. The backpack only got partially wet.

I did the walk in December and found the Gorge to be quite pleasant, therefore I would expect the summer months to be the best time to visit the Gorge.

Northbrook Gorge is a very special place so please respect it.

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Greenes Falls, Mount Glorious


This is an easy walk through lush rainforest on a flat walking track that features creeks, a waterall and small rock pools.

Start at Miala Picnic Ground. There is the option to walk one way to Greenes Falls, then return a slightly different way. There are some bridges along the track and a viewing platform at the falls. The creek and waterfall flow well after rain, but slow to a trickle most of the time.

There are more explatory opportunities from the Falls for those wishing to explore this area further, including walking downstream from the Falls then upstream to Love Creek, or simply downstream from the falls to Cedar Creek.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Enoggera Creek via Black Soil track


This walk takes just over an hour to do in total. From Mount Nebo Road, take the Black Soil Track found on the BFP map between the Fire Tower and Scrub Road. There is some elevation lost in descent so be prepared to walk steeply uphill on the way back. This walk is very nice to do after prior rains and has great explatory opportunities, being one the longest creeks in the Park. It is a very tranquil place with some water usually present in the creek. I went there last time after a flood and it must have been quite impressive, plants were bent over and there was debris at least a metre or two above creek level, hanging from the trees. By continuing further along this track it is possible to walk up to South Boundary Road and onto Gold Creek Dam from here.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Enoggera Creek via Scrub Road (off Mount Nebo Road)

This walk visits a section of Enoggera Creek and features nice rock pools, a waterfall and a waterhole. The waterfall is not at all high but still rather impressive after good rain, however the waterhole can be quite muddy, most likely due to the water being churned up by the waterfall. Overall though it is a nice spot to walk to and worthy of a visit. The track is relatively easy going, it is gradual in descent. The walk is about 1 hour in total.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Bellbird Grove

Bellbird Grove is a recreational area popular with families and visitors, who venture here on weekends to escape Brisbane's suburban city life. The Park offers both secluded and open grassed areas, numerous BBQ facilities and amenities. As a child, I often visited Bellbird Grove with my family, swimming in the creek and exploring the surrounding Parkland. Over the years I have seen many changes at Bellbird Grove, which in my opinion have not only improved the accessibility of the Park, but preserved the aesthetic beauty of Bellbird Grove.

There are a number of interesting features to be found along the walking trails, including information on the history of the region and various animal and plant species that inhabit Bellbird Grove. The most popular bushwalking trail is an easy-grade track named the 'Turrbal Circuit' and provides information about the the Turrbal people who once occupied this region. The circuit travels alongside the Park's main catchment, Cedar Creek, which is often dry and contains little or no water, however on occasion can flood after sufficient rainfall. There are numerous footbridges along different sections of the track which offer the opportunity to rest and view the creek while listening to the abundant wildlife that inhabits the area. Another circuit walk named the 'The Golden Boulder track' is more difficult to negotiate, given the steep graded sections of the track. It runs past ruins of old mine shafts where, many years ago, prospectors fossicked for Gold from the abundance of quartz found in the area. However, attempts to find Gold were futile, so mining was abandoned by the 1950's.


For those who wish to explore this area futher, a management road branches off the Turrbal Circuit and leads further into the Park, however thick Lantana infestation in this area may obscure and or prevent access. A clue in finding the road is that it lies close to a footbridge and runs parallel to Cedar Creek. The road eventually splits into two, branching off to the right and crossing the creek to ascend a short but steep stretch of track, which eventually reaches a picturesque and pleasant lake.

For the more adventurous bushwalkers, it is possible to detour from Bellbird Grove and ascend Camp Mountain from Cedar Creek and then descend to the rural area ouside Samford. Bellbird Grove offers other explorative opportunities that access different areas of Brisbane Forest Park, however these will be explained further in future postings on this Blog.

Saturday, July 10, 2004

Joyners Ridge to Northbrook Parkway

This is a very long but picturesque walk through the centre of Brisbane Forest Park. Mobile reception is quite good for most of this walk, however this is limited once the Parkway is reached.

Take Joyner's Ridge Road and walk along it for approx 2.5 hours until the crossroads. This section is a nice walk through the Park, it is relatively flat and there are breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and England Creek catchment area. Bellbirds can often be heard making their distinct 'tinkling' sound in the surrounding trees.

Once at the crossroads, turn right into England Creek Road which takes you down to the creek. This stretch of track will take about 2 hours but eventually you will reach the England Creek crossing and the 'campsite' beside the creek.

There is the opportunity to swim here, however when I visited here some years ago there was very little water in the creek, even after several days of rain. There are some waterholes along the creek, but once agin there may not be enough water in them or they are simply stagnant from lack of it. From the campsite the track starts to ascend, climbing the ridge up to Northbrook Mountain. This stretch is very long and tedious, but relatively easy to walk up.

Once at the top there is a deeply eroded track that drops steeply down the side of the ridge to Red and White Cedars. Alternatively, turn left at the top and follow Lawnton Road all the way, which will also take you down to the Parkway. This could be done either as a full day walk or ideally as a throughwalk, camping at the crossing of England Creek or at the campsite below Northbrook Mountain.