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Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve Come and explore the rainforest
The natural jewel of the Sunshine Coast hinterland

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve comprises 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains landscape. A remnant of the rainforests that once covered the Blackall Range, the reserve is a living museum of diverse plant and animal life which will delight with its tranquility and beauty.

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The rainforest reserve Make the most of your visit by learning about the special creatures who live here
  • Conspicuous ground-dweller Noisy pitta
    Stars of the rainforest Birds

    As you enter the forest you will hear the layered orchestra of bird song around and above you. 141 different species live at Mary Cairncross and play essential roles in the ecosystem: eating insects, spreading plant seeds, turning soil and raising their young.

    More about birds
  • Endangered beauty Richmond birdwing butterfly
    Bugs in the system Invertebrates

    An abundance of invertebrates inhabit the undergrowth in our forest: ants, butterflies, wasps, bees, spiders, centipedes and even crustaceans. Invertebrates are thought to make up 97% of all animals on earth. They are crucial workers in the ecosystem as pollinators, garbage collectors and food sources. Many species remain to be identified, here we have profiled a few known to live in the reserve.

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  • Vulnerable colour-changer Cascade tree frog
    Amphibians and reptiles Herpetofauna

    Our reserve is home to several species of frogs, snakes, lizards, dragons and skinks, some of which are threatened. These cold-blooded masters of camouflage are important creatures in the forest ecosystem.

    More about reptiles and amphibians
  • Have you seen this species? Purple shelf fungi
    Amazing mycelia Fungi

    Beneath your feet and within the plants themselves is a living network of mycelium - the kingdom of fungi.

    More about fungi
  • A wallaby with status Red-legged Pademelon
    Fascinating fauna Mammals

    If you are quiet in the forest you may be lucky enough to spot a Red-legged Pademelon hopping across the track. The Pademelon is a solitary, shy animalthat is active both during the day and night, feeding on fallen rainforest leaves and fruits.

    More about mammals
Rainforest Discovery Centre

Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the multi-sensory, interactive educational displays

Visiting as a school group? Book now Visiting as a tour group? click here .
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History of the reserve The rainforest holds ancient and contemporary stories
Upcoming events
23-Nov-20 School Holiday Fun- Agents of Discovery Program

Become a nature agent these school holidays with Agents of Discovery, an award-winning app. This free digital game gets kids outdoors, exploring our spectacular conservation areas whilst learning about the creatures who live in them. A cute koala guide shows players where to find hidden challenges, unlocked in the game by simply walking in the forest. Choose from two missions: Bushland Discovery 2.0 in Tanawha or Rainforest Discovery at Mary Cairncross. Suitable for 4 - 12yrs. Download the free Agents of Discovery app from google play or app store and load the Sunshine Coast missions onto your smart device. Mobile phone coverage can be limited in the forest, so make sure you get your device loaded and ready before heading out. The app requires min. 2GB of RAM, standard on devices 2017. Solve all the challenges and become an Agent of Discovery!

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Latest News
10-Jun-20 Rainforest Discovery Centre Reopens

Find out about new opening hours and COVID-19 restrictions in place from June 12, 2020.