Coomera River Circuit 2022
Description: The Coomera River Circuit is a picturesque on-track walk passing through rainforest and giant brush box forest. A lookout platform provides excellent views of the 160m gorge and the Coomera Falls; a great spot for morning tea. The track then follows the river upstream through the rainforest, crossing the river several times allowing views of waterfalls and hopefully, lamington crays, before re-joining the Border track for the trek back to Binna Burra and a cup of coffee. Rock-hopping is necessary at the river crossings with the possibility of wet feet.
This activity will be conducted in keeping with the Queensland Government’s Covid-19 directions at the time of the activity. Please do not attend this activity if you have been feeling unwell with Covid-19 related symptoms in the 7 day period before this activity.
Please register for this activity via the NPAQ website completing all fields.
Walk Grading: Blue (Intermediate) 18-19 km including some rock-hopping at river crossings – requires a moderate level of fitness.
Meet: Binna Burra Carpark near the Teahouse at 8.00am for an 8.15am start.
What to Bring: Hat, light jacket, rain gear (just in case), torch, hand sanitizer, insect repellent (leeches), whistle, 2+ litres of water, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, positive outlook, $5.00 NPAQ Fee
Directions: From Brisbane, travel south along the M1 to Nerang. Travel through Nerang following the road signs to Binna Burra. Allow 1 ¾ to 2 hours. Carpooling is encouraged.
Nominations: NPAQ Website.
Leader: Frank Freeman. Mobile: 0427 655 514 Fax: 07 3824 3954; Email: frank_fr@bigpond.net.au
Leader’s Report
A few clouds dotted the sky as six walkers enthusiastically out from Binna Burra along the Border Track. After a short rest on the seat at the junction, the party crossed the saddle and headed downhill towards the river in the valley below. It soon became apparent that recent rains had turned the track to mud and slush slowing the progress of the party.
Morning tea was enjoyed at the viewing platform overlooking the Coomera River Falls and Gorge. The narrow track, the steep cliff face and slippery conditions were negotiated with great care. While most river crossing were easily negotiated using boulders as stepping stones, others required greater care and wet feet became the norm as walkers slipped on wet rocks or simply waded through the shallows.
Lunch was enjoyed at the final crossing where two Lamington Blue Crays entertained the group, one cray coming out of the water and climbing part-way up a walker’s boot.
Back on the Border track, the going was easier and good time was made back to the teahouse for coffee and cake.
The ongoing wet season had made the rainforest healthy and verdant as new growth sprouted up and out. High winds had felled a number of trees across the track, providing obstacles to negotiate. A shy lyrebird was heard at the Mt Hobwee junction but would not reveal itself to the group. Catbirds were heard but not seen. A cheeky brush turkey trotted down the track in front of walkers seemingly without concern for the people following. These highlights, along with the companionable participants, made the walk one to remember.
