Groups are now able to book the new Hardings Paddock Community Hut, located on the doorstep of the sprawling Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate.
Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson Councillor Russell Milligan said the new off-the-grid facility surrounded by the natural beauty of an Enviroplan-funded conservation estate would be perfect for uses such as school groups, meetings and small functions.
“We want to encourage environmental and community groups to make use of this new facility in such special surrounds,” Cr Milligan said.
Deputy Mayor Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said Hardings Hut was constructed to be self-sufficient with a wastewater treatment system, solar power, kitchen and disability access.
“The design of the hut, with gable roof, large northern veranda and corrugated cladding, is in keeping with the farm style of other buildings in Hardings Paddock,” Cr Madsen said.
Division 1 Councillor Shelia Ireland said Hardings Paddock was one of the best access points to explore the estate’s rugged volcanic peaks, and was fantastic for bird watching, family-friendly walks along the Bush Tucker Trail, mountain bikes and horse riding as well as offering low-cost camping facilities.
“The new hut will complement these estate uses and provide a base for related environmental education, conservation work and nature-based activities,” Cr Ireland said.
Located 20 minutes drive from the Ipswich CBD, the Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate covers over 2,200 hectares.
The conservation estate supports extensive forests and rugged volcanic peaks and slopes including Flinders Peak, Mt Blaine, Mt Catherine and Mt Goolman.
Hardings Paddock and Flinders Plum Picnic Areas are the destination highlights within the conservation estate with each area offering barbecues and public toilets.
The campground at Hardings Paddock provides the only bush camping opportunity within the 6,000+ hectares of natural reserves in the Ipswich region.
For more information about Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate, click here.
Find booking information by searching for ‘Hardings Paddock’ at Ipswich.qld.gov.au/parkssearch
The Hardings Paddock Community Hut was developed with the support of the Queensland Government’s Unite and Recover Community Stimulus Package in association with council’s Enviroplan program.
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