Join us for an event What's on

Find out about upcoming opportunities to learn and engage

  • 05-Nov-22 Steve Parish Photography Workshop

    5 + 6 November 2022 A two day photography workshop where Steve Parish will show you how to create the space and state of mind for your essence to be seen, felt, and heard, enabling your highest creative potential. Limited numbers.

  • 13-Nov-22 Mary Cairncross Butterfly Survey

    Build your knowledge of local butterflies found at Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve by joining a butterfly survey with local butterfly enthusiasts.

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.

    See more
  • 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