Mountains Add Majesty to First Park of the Month

Iconic Glass House Mountains National Park is listed on both the Queensland and National Heritage Registers for its immense geological, cultural and scenic value. These dramatic peaks that pierce the skyline of the Sunshine Coast hinterland also feature prominently in First Nations Dreaming and history. With its rich cultural history coupled with conservation significance, the park’s Beerburrum trailhead was the perfect place to inspire Queenslanders and visitors from all walks of life to fall in love with our state’s amazing wild places.

The inaugural Parks Connect Park of the Month kicked off with an Acknowledgment of Country from NPAQ’s President, Susanne Cooper, followed by an address from CEO Chris Thomas. Then, it was time for some forest immersion…

Also known as ‘forest bathing’ (or Shinrin-yoku in Japanese, where the modern movement began), it involves grounding yourself in the atmosphere of the forest by engaging all your senses to connect with nature. Led by certified forest therapy guide Jay Ridgewell, from Held Outside Nature Connection Experiences, the group meandered down a local trail, pausing to connect with the surroundings. Participants commented that it was a moving experience, especially for those who don’t often take the time to pause. For those who missed it, a longer sensory grounding session with Jay is planned for 30 July 2025 at Beerburrum trailhead – book fast on Eventbrite as tickets are limited to just 12 attendees.

Those who skipped the immersion found time to get creative at the clay craft stall run by Mooloolah River Landcare, and the kids happily coloured-in Herbie thanks to the new ProtectED learning materials from the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) and explored the Junior Ranger Station and Little Nature Library. The first walk led by Paul Donatiu, from the Queensland Threatened Plant Network, was an insightful wander along the summit track, paying special attention to Queensland’s wildflowers and learning more about threatened flora recovery. Our Parks Connect Cadet Rangers (aged 12–18) were also along for the walk, bringing their curiosity and enthusiasm as they checked off the impressive list of native plants they’d spotted.

Back at base, QPWS Ranger Donna Haslam dedicated her time to highlighting the importance of fire management and the challenges of fighting off an outbreak of the invasive soil-borne mould Phytophthora cinnamomi in the National Park (another good reason why walkers responsibly took the time to clean their boots and stay on the trails).

After the groups returned, Volunteer Ranger Dan Watts shared his wealth of experience in preparing for bushwalking adventures, including route planning, navigation, what to pack, and most importantly, what to do in an emergency. It was a great reminder to always leave trip intentions with a trusted contact, and to have an emergency beacon like a Garmin InReach or PLB. Dan’s gear set-up was extremely comprehensive and inspiring—just the thing for both experienced mountaineers and aspiring hikers.

Park of the Month is designed for everyone, so it was great to see people young and old snapping photos with the Parks Connect selfie frame and sharing a cup of tea and a chat! NPAQ would especially like to thank our presenters and volunteers for devoting their time to making the day a resounding success. If you would like to consider volunteering or presenting at upcoming Park of the Month activities, please do submit your interest.

The July Park of the Month is just one of many exciting Parks Connect events, with monthly activities scheduled in South East Queensland parks through to October. Sign up for updates or keep checking the page at bit.ly/QldPOTM