Ipswich is home to some of the best nature walks in South-East Queensland, and they can be enjoyed safely during the summer months if visitors plan ahead when loading up their backpacks.
Division 1 Councillor Pye Augustine said many people will use Ipswich’s bushwalking tracks as they reconnect with nature and visit some of its most culturally significant sites over the holidays.
“While autumn is the ideal time for visiting Ipswich’s nature reserves, many families look for outdoor activities during the Christmas school holidays,” Cr Augustine said.
“It’s important visitors avoid bushwalking in the heat of the middle of the day. Rather, go early in the morning, and pack plenty of water, sunscreen and a hat.
“If you choose to avoid the heat by going later in the day, please be aware of park closure times.”
Cr Augustine said if bushwalkers take note of weather conditions and warnings, bring the right equipment and inform others of their trip plans, a world of beauty awaits them at Ipswich’s natural hidden gems.
“I’m proud that the Division 1 area is home to some of South-East Queensland’s most popular tracks, including White Rock-Spring Mountain Conservation Estate in Redbank Plains, which is home to the distinctive and sacred White Rock,” Cr Augustine said.
“White Rock, also known as Nugum/Boogun, can be reached after a 3.5km walk through a landscape of dense bushland and rocky ridges, where more than 600 plant and 150 animal species have been found.
“White Rock is significant to the Traditional Owners as a women’s area and is protected under the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Act 2003.
“Climbing White Rock and the adjacent southern ridge is prohibited, however the estate offers plenty of alternatives for people wanting elevated views of the stunning surrounds, including Main Ridge Lookout and Gunpit Ridge Lookout, where climbing is encouraged.
“Other routes, including the Little White Rock Trail, Six Mile Creek Boardwalk, Main Ridge Track, White Rock Loop and Little White Lookout Circuit, are shorter and ideal for young families or groups to get out and about.
“Experienced walkers wanting a challenge may want to tackle the very popular Flinders Peak at Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate in Purga.
“These tracks are all situated in Enviroplan conservation areas, surrounded by rare and threatened Australian flora and native wildlife.”
Division 1 Councillor Jacob Madsen said Purga Nature Reserve features views of the world’s largest protected forest of endangered Swamp Tea-tree, which are a stunning, paperbark-clad melaleuca tree.
“The reserve is home to significant koala, wallaby and bird populations, while the frog pond is a remarkable sight after rain as a number of amphibian species converge,” Cr Madsen said.
“This is a tranquil walk that is perfect for families with young children, while its raised boardwalks are great for wheelchair and pram access.
“Flinders Peak, accessible from the south in Flinders-Goolman Conservation Estate, is more for experienced and thrill-seeking hikers and climbers, with its steep and rocky ascent.
“But those who scale the mountain are rewarded with stunning views of nearby Mt Blaine, Mt Catherine and Mt Goolman, the Bremer River catchment and the Scenic Rim.
“Mt Blaine itself is a difficult climb that should only be taken on by experienced climbers, but the peak offers unobstructed panoramic views of the landscape, stretching as far as Wyalong Dam and Mt Barney in the Scenic Rim.
“Remember to plan ahead and walk safely – with sunscreen, long sleeve shirts and proper footwear, plenty of water, and always advise someone of where you are going and what time you expect to return.”
Hikers should take care while bushwalking in Ipswich, with summer weather bringing a range of threats including extreme heat, bushfires and severe storms.
Council urges bushwalkers to practice safety measures including:
- Notifying others of your planned walk, including expected departure and return times
- Checking weather forecasts and fire and weather warnings
- Considering your fitness level, the trail difficulty rating and time you have available
- Packing plenty of water, food, sunscreen, insect repellent and a first aid kit, and making sure you wear appropriate clothing (long sleeve shirt and shoes appropriate for bushwalking)
- Taking a mobile phone and emergency contact details with you
- Always staying on the track.
Park users can check for closures and information on fire or weather-related threats on the council’s website.
Walkers are also reminded to respect the environment and other people by removing rubbish, obeying signage, staying on designated paths and not disturbing plants, animals and rocks.
For more information about walking tracks across Ipswich, visit council’s website.
