Takura Environmental Reserve

The Takura Environmental Reserve contains the last patch of remnant rainforest in Takura. In addition to rainforest, however, patches of vine thickets and woodlands comprised of Eucalypt species can be seen throughout.

Purchased by the Stocks family in 1944 for the purpose of farming sugar cane and pineapples, the land also contained stands of Kauri pine (Agathis robusta) which were felled to build houses on this land, as well as other land owned by the Stocks family in Rockhampton. Only half the land was utilised for farming, with the majority of the other half remaining untouched.

In 1995 the land was sold to the Chorny family, who ran a Clydesdale horse stud. Grazing took place in the cleared paddocks, which allowed the vegetated areas to grow and regenerate. In 2020, the property was purchased by Fraser Coast Regional Council to protect the important ecological values of the land, and to help educate the community about environmental processes.

This reserve covers a total of 56.49 hectares and contains a vast array of plants and animals. Up to 190 plants and 57 bird species have been identified, with a trail cam project undertaken by Council revealing the presence of the Vulnerable Black-breasted Button-quail (Turnix melanogaster), as well as the Noisy Pitta (Pitta versicolour). A host of other species such as the Short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus), Swamp wallaby (Wallabia bicolor), Lace monitor (Varanus varius) and Common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula) are also found throughout the reserve.

The Takura Environmental Reserve is located at 42 Barnett Road, Takura, with parking available at the top of the driveway. Access to the walking track is available adjacent to the welcome sign. Total track length within the reserve is 2.4kms.

     Walking track

     Interpretive signs