If you’re looking for an outing in nature with your kids, look no further than the Brisbane Koala Bushlands, just 15 kilometres south-east of Brisbane’s CBD.
Home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and, of course, koalas, the reserve features a range of walking tracks, picnic areas, and an information hub, making it a great place to visit.
The Walking Tracks at Brisbane Koala Bushlands
The Stockyard Creek walking track is a well-maintained 1.4-kilometre loop which takes you through the heart of the reserve to Stockyard Creek, with a boardwalk and a viewing deck.
It is an easy walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with plenty of benches to rest at along the way, making it ideal for families. This paved circuit is appropriate for prams and people using a wheelchair, though some assistance may be required.
Signs along the track provide information about the flora and fauna in the reserve, providing a meaningful educational experience for visitors.
As with any bush walk, take the time to appreciate your surroundings, looking high and low for wildlife. On this particular walk, you may even have the chance to spot some of the reserve’s resident wildlife, including koalas, wallabies, and various birdlife.
JC Trotter Multi-use Trail is a 3 km shared track for bushwalkers and horse riders. The path winds through eucalypts, where scribbly gums tower over an understory of grass trees and banksias.
Horse Trail is another multi-use trail for bushwalkers and horse riders. This longer track is 6.2 km each way.
Signage at the start of the trail indicates distances to the exit points. This track passes patches of rainforest along Stockyard and Tingalpa creeks with the potential to see swamp wallabies and wildflowers in the understory of the open forests.
More information on Brisbane Koala Bushlands, including trail maps can be found here.
Facilities at Brisbane Koala Bushlands
In addition to the walking tracks, the Brisbane Koala Bushlands have several areas where visitors can enjoy a relaxing picnic in the pleasant surroundings.
The primary picnic area is situated near the entrance on Alperton Road. It is conveniently located near the spacious parking lot and accessible toilets. This picnic area is well-shaded and has several tables, benches and BBQs.
This is actually not a bad place to take your kids for a walk in the rain, and enjoy a picnic undercover while listening to the rain.
This location also houses an unstaffed information hub.
The standout feature is a wall mural of local wildlife with interactive elements. Children can press buttons on the wall and hear examples of each animal’s call and relevant information about each creature. I wonder if they can mimic these sounds?
Brisbane Koala Bushland Features
- Walking and horse riding tracks
- Accessible toilets
- Information hub with interactive elements
- Informative signs along the track
- Stockland Creek Circuit is a paved track
- Lookout and boardwalk on the Stockland Creek Circuit
- Shaded picnic tables
- BBQs
- NO drinking water is available
- Dogs on leash welcome
- Free off-street parking
Accessibility at Brisbane Koala Bushlands
The Stockyard Creek Circuit is a paved track which may suit individuals using a wheelchair. Some assistance may be required on parts of the track with a gradient. Wheelchair-accessible toilets are located in the main picnic area.
What We Thought of Brisbane Koala Bushlands
Although we didn’t spot koalas on this occasion, we thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Brisbane Koala Bushlands and getting some exercise in nature. The interactive elements at the information hub were a big hit with the kids. They even helped us identify some bird calls we heard while walking.
How to Get to Brisbane Koala Bushlands
Brisbane Koala Bushlands main entrance can be found at 137 Alperton Road, Burbank, QLD 4156. The main picnic area and access to the Stockyard Creek Circuit can be found at this entrance.
Brisbane Koala Bushlands, 137 Alperton Road, Burbank
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