
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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Conspicuous ground-dweller Noisy pitta
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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
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Have you seen this species? Purple shelf fungi
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A wallaby with status Red-legged Pademelon
Visitors of all ages will enjoy exploring the multi-sensory, interactive educational displays
Visiting as a school group? Visiting as a tour group? click here .

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Geological history
Learn about the ancient and changing landscape and how the Glass House Mountains were formed
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European history
Learn about early settlement, timber extraction and the families and individuals who protected the forest for future generations
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Traditional Owners
Learn more about Jinibara people - their history, culture and future

Join Steve Wilson, Brisbane-based herpetologist, author, fauna consultant and Information Officer with the Queensland Museum, for an informative talk about the distinctive reptile communities that inhabit our rainforest environments. This talk will focus mainly on the distinctive reptile communities that inhabit our rainforest environments. It celebrates the biodiversity we have an obligation to protect, and examines some interesting aspects of the lifestyles of some of our fascinating rainforest species. The talk will also cover our interactions with reptiles - how we can coexist with reptiles in our home environments, and common sense advice on dealing with dangerous snakes. Bookings essential. Tickets $5 + booking fee - Limited places. Mary Cairncross Scenic reserve, Theatrette

One of the most often-asked questions about frogs is instead about cane toads! This presentation by a guest speaker of the QLD Frog Society will answer all your cane toad related questions and bust the many myths surrounding these highly successful invaders. The talk will include the when, why and how of cane toads in Australia, their impact on native fauna, how to identify toads from native frogs and the latest efforts in cane toad control. Lastly, find out how each of us can make a difference to the cane toad population on a local scale, whilst creating a frog friendly environment in your garden. Plus, find out how you can receive free cane toad tadpole baits for controlling cane toads on your property! Image credit: Ben Revell Bookings essential. Tickets $5 + booking fee - Limited places. Mary Cairncross Scenic reserve, Theatrette

follow the clues to find the killer