Lamington National Park
Queensland
Lamington National Park, located in the McPherson Range on the Queensland/New South Wales border, spans over 20,600 hectares of protected temperate rainforest. Renowned for its rich biodiversity, the park features ancient trees, pristine waterfalls, and abundant birdlife, making it a haven for nature lovers. The park's landscape is shaped by remnants of the 23-million-year-old Tweed Volcano, with elevations ranging from 700 to over 1,000 meters, including cloud forests unique to Australia. It is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World Heritage Site, recognized for its ecological significance and outstanding natural beauty. Visitors can explore extensive walking tracks that wind through lush rainforests and along dramatic cliffs overlooking the Numinbah Valley. The park also plays a critical role in bird conservation as part of the Scenic Rim Important Bird Area. Lamington's cultural heritage includes evidence of Aboriginal occupation dating back 10,000 years and significant European exploration and conservation efforts. The park's combination of natural wonders and historical significance makes it a treasured destination for both ecological study and outdoor recreation.
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Tip: The best time to visit Lamington National Park is during the cooler months from April to September to avoid the summer heat and heavy rains. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets or permits in advance through the official Queensland Parks website, especially during peak seasons. Guided walks and tours are available, offering insights into the park's ecology and history. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring suitable hiking gear. Discounts may be available for seniors, families, and group bookings. Early morning visits increase chances to see diverse birdlife and wildlife. Check for any park alerts or fire warnings before planning your visit.
Interesting facts
- •Lamington National Park is part of the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a World Heritage Site inscribed in 1986.
- •The park protects remnants of the ancient Tweed Volcano, dating back 23 million years.
- •Bernard O'Reilly's 1937 rescue of Stinson airplane crash survivors is a celebrated event in Australian bush history.
- •The park is within the Scenic Rim Important Bird Area, crucial for conservation of threatened bird species.
- •Bushfires in 2019 caused damage to the rainforest canopy, leading to federal funding for weed eradication and recovery programs.
History
Lamington National Park was established in 1915, named after Lord Lamington, Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1902.
Aboriginal peoples, including the Wangerriburras and Nerangballum tribes, inhabited the area for at least 6,000 years, with archaeological evidence dating back 10,000 years.
European exploration began with Captain Patrick Logan and Allan Cunningham, followed by timber cutters in the 19th century.
Conservation efforts led by Robert Collins in the 1890s and later Romeo Lahey were pivotal in protecting the area from logging.
The O'Reilly family established a guesthouse near the park in 1926, and the park became part of the Gondwana Rainforests World Heritage Site in 1986.
Notably, in 1937 Bernard O'Reilly heroically rescued survivors of a crashed airplane in the park's wilderness.
Place Guide
O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat1926
A historic guesthouse established in 1926 near the park, serving as a base for visitors to explore the rainforest and learn about local conservation history.
Binna Burra Lodge1930s
Built in the 1930s by founding members of the National Parks Association of Queensland, this lodge offers accommodation and access to walking tracks within the park.
Walking Tracks and Waterfalls
The park features numerous trails through ancient rainforests leading to spectacular waterfalls and lookout points over the Numinbah Valley and surrounding mountains.
Contact
Phone: 13 74 68
