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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

England Creek (Right Branch) via Mount Nebo Road

This is a circuit walk that begins at the top of Mount Nebo Road, between Westridge Outlook and Mount Nebo Transfer Station and descends to the creek below via a management vehicle access track. From here either walk up or down England Creek or, take a track northwest up to the crossroads to visit the Left Branch of England Creek, via England Creek Road. On the return trip, I took a track up to Goodes Road which connects with Dundas Road. This will then take you to the Mount Nebo Transfer Station and back to Mount Nebo Road. (For further directions see also England Creek via Joyner's Ridge Road)