The Wetlands

Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland, Australia, is near the mouth of the Brisbane River, which flows into Moreton Bay, which has over 350 islands.  There are quite a few wetlands areas along the coast, and the Wynnum Wetlands, just south of the mouth of the Brisbane River is a great place to visit.

I confess I have not been able to explore it until this day, April 2024. The area near the wetlands was once a huge rubbish tip for Brisbane City, but a few years ago, it was deemed full and the area was recreated into a public park and wetland area, with access to a Bird Hide, Walks through the mangrove and other trees, and a great boardwalk to explore the sea.

I have been before but not walked the whole track – but so glad that I have at last done soon.  I am sure I will sleep well tonight! There are several ways to access it, but I went to the northern entrance which has a good parking area.

On the Walking Track

Near the entrance to the park.

With all the rain that Queensland has experienced over the last few months, everything green is very green.  The walking path is easy but slopes up and down around the property.

The views are great – especially from the higher slopes.  All sorts of trees, and birds abound in the area, and it is a place where migratory birds come each year, usually between March and September.  I didn’t see any on this occasion.

Bushland

Swampy creek where many of the birds like to rest.

The Bird Hide in the Wetlands

There’s a great bird hide, made with many recycled items from the old rubbish dump.  It’s a good idea to have binoculars to get a good view of the birds.  I could see some in the distance.

There’s seating, spaces to “hide” to watch the birds and plenty of information about the feathery visitors from overseas.

The Bird Hide

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The wetlands

I’d like to see a little more information about the route around the wetlands, as it is a long walk and a little confusing at times.

Heading to the Boardwalk

Queenslanders are very familiar with mangrove trees as they grow pretty much all along there cost and as we have tidal changes every day, the mangroves grow well with their roots in mainly water – salt water.

Crabs and Fish

It is also a habitat for some fish to breed and various crabs.  The muddy tides are a popular spot for the wonderful mud crabs too, and it is not surprising to see a few crabpots nearby.

On the Boardwalk

On the Boardwalk looking out onto Moreton Bay

There is a reminder on one of the signs to look up and down.  Some of the birds will not be on the ground or water, but high overhead in the trees.  There are things to see above and below.  Sometimes it is good to stand or sit quietly for a while and listen.  You will hear strange sounds from the water and the trees above.

Spoonbills in the Swamp

Words of  Advice

You can do a short walk or a long walk.  Wear comfortable shoes, and make sure you have your phone with you – just in case.  A hat may be a good idea – and as mosquitos love the wetlands, it is a good idea to take a repellant too.  There are not a lot of places to rest, but do so if you are feeling stressed or tired.

As I was walking alone, I also carried a personal alarm, which I have with me all the time.  (I’ve never had to use it – but I am comforted by having it with me!