As spring nears the Vera Scarth-Johnson Wildflower Reserve is coming alive with colour and the community is invited to join in celebrating nature’s spectacular seasonal display through a guided tour.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s Natural Areas team will host the wildflower walk with special guest, local botanist and conservationist Maureen Schmitt, on Monday 1 September.
Located in Coonarr, the Vera Scarth-Johnson Wildflower Reserve protects over 93 hectares of wallum heath vegetation and borders approximately 1 km of the Elliott River.
It is home to rare plants, colourful wildflowers and a rich diversity of birds and wildlife.
Council’s Natural Resources and Environment portfolio spokesperson Cr Gary Kirk said the reserve showcased the region’s unique biodiversity.
“The Vera Scarth-Johnson Reserve is a stunning example of our natural heritage and a place where residents can connect with nature,” Cr Kirk said.
“This guided walk is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our native wildflowers and the importance of preserving these special environments for future generations.”
Wildflowers bloom year-round but spring offers the most spectacular display.
Visitors may spot:
- Wedding bush (Ricinocarpus pinifolius) – masses of white flowers
- Wallum boronia (Boronia falcifolia) – rose-pink four-petal blooms
- Wallum phebalium (Phebalium woombye) – white and pink five-petal flowers
- Wild May (Leptospermum polygalifolium) – white flowers with lemon-scented leaves
- Eggs and Bacon (Dillwynia retorta) – bright yellow flowers with red centres
All flora and fauna in the reserve are protected and visitors are reminded not to pick the flowers.
Details
Date: Monday 1 September
Time: 8:30am
Duration: Allow up to 2 hours
The walk is approximately 1.2 km return, slow-paced and suitable for most fitness levels.
Tracks are sandy and regular stops will be made to admire the blooms.
Attendees are advised to wear long sleeves, long pants, a hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes and to bring plenty of drinking water.
Bookings are essential.
To register call 1300 883 699 and ask for Parks Administration or email parksadministration@bundaberg.qld.gov.au
Participants will receive a copy of Council’s Wallum Wildflower Guide and learn how to identify the diverse native flora found throughout the reserve.
Getting there:
The reserve is approximately 30 minutes from central Bundaberg.
Follow Goodwood Road, turn onto Dr Mays Crossing then left at the T-intersection onto Coonarr Road.
Look for the Council reserve entrance sign on the left.
Find out more here.
Other news:
