Toolona Circuit, Lamington National Park, 2021
Description: One of the most picturesque tracks in Lamington National Park, the Toolona Creek Circuit passes through a giant box forest, by several waterfalls and offers great views from scenic lookouts.
After crossing Picnic Rock above Elabana Falls, the track follows Toolona creek upstream past the magnificent Chalahn and Toolona Falls as well as stands of king fern (Todea barbara) and ancient Antarctic Beech trees (Nothofagus moorei) as we top the escarpment. Following lunch at the Wanungara Lookout (Great views), the circuit returns via the Border Track through more stands of Antarctic Beech Trees with further views to Mt Warning from Bithongabel Lookout. Then it’s pretty well downhill to O’Reilly’s for a well-earned cup of coffee.
While the walk is on-track, there are a large number of creek crossings (expect to get your feet wet) and extended, moderate ascents. Expect rough surfaces with protruding rocks and roots as well as steep drop-offs. Walking boots are recommended.
This activity will be conducted in keeping with health department Covid-19 directions regarding social distancing, good hygiene practices and group size in force for the venue/area at the time of the activity.
Please do not attend this activity if you are feeling unwell on the day, or may have had contact with COVID-19 in the 21 days prior to the activity.
Please register for this activity via the NPAQ website completing all fields or contact the leader who will do the electronic registration for you.
Walk Grading: Intermediate. 18km – a good level of fitness is required.
Meet: O’Reilly’s Carpark by 8.15am for an 8.30am start.
What to Bring: Hat, light jacket, rain gear (just in case), insect repellent (leeches), torch, whistle, 2+ litres of water, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, $5.00 NPA Fee.
Directions: From Brisbane, travel down the M1 to Beenleigh. Travel through Beenleigh and Tamborine Village on the Beaudesert Road. About 3-4km past Tamborine Village, turn left to Canungra. In Canungra, turn right opposite the Outpost Cafe, following the signs to O’Reilly’s. Allow 2 to 2 ¼ hours from Brisbane. Carpooling is encouraged.
Nominations: Via NPAQ Website.
Leader: Frank Freeman ( 0427 655 514; Email: frank_fr@bigpond.net.au)
Leaders Report: Toolona Creek Circuit 2021
Sunday, 7 March, 2021
In warm but fine conditions, four walkers left O’Reilly’s along the Border Track. It soon became apparent that the track would be wet and muddy from recent rains. However, those same rains meant a lush and verdant rainforest, adding to the enjoyment of the experience.
Fortunately, the waters had run down and creek levels were perfect giving gushing waterfalls yet safe crossing levels. However, the rocks on the crossings were wet and slippery and it soon became apparent that it was safer to get wet feet than try to cross via the stepping stones.
Nearing the escarpment, clouds rolled in dashing all hopes of views from the lookouts but adding to the ethereal experience of a rainforest dripping with “grandfather’s beard” and stands of magnificent Antarctic Beech trees looming trough the mist.
Although the track was rougher, wetter, slushier and slipperier making the walk more difficult than expected, a great time was had by all, with the reward of a coffee back at O’Reilly’s.
