Kawana Forest: Nature Walk

Highlights

Kawana Forest is a large conservation reserve in Meridan Plains that lies to the west of Kawana Way. The Kawana Forest Walking Trail is a short easy walk that loops into remnant paperbark and eucalypt forest – part of what is called a littoral (threatened) rainforest on Australia’s east coast. (* See explanation below). The trail is 957 metres long and full of variety. You’ll see white trunks of towering gums, vibrant green fan palms, vines, orchids, ferns and figs. You may also get to see different butterfly species, and Pale-headed Rosellas, Brown Cuckoo-Doves and Scarlet Honeyeaters. Note: The eastern section stays flooded /wet for some time if it's rained recently, with mosquitos being prevalent.

Littoral Rainforest and Coastal Vine Thickets of Eastern Australia Ecological Community (hereafter referred to as Littoral Rainforest), are listed as Critically Endangered under the Australian Government Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act).

Littoral Rainforest was listed as Critically Endangered because its geographic distribution is severely fragmented and primarily consists of numerous small and disjunct patches.

The key historic and ongoing threat to Littoral Rainforest is coastal development and, given its distribution, Littoral Rainforest is also highly susceptible to the interacting effects of climate-change and sea-level rise, both of which exacerbate the existing threats of habitat fragmentation and invasion by transformer weeds.

How to get there

To the starting point: Head to Woodlands Boulevarde off Kawana Way Link Road,

Turn right at the roundabout into White Cedar Drive and look to park near the park that adjoins Lacebark St or Lillypilly Court. Alternatively, you can access this walk from the end of nearby, Tulipwood Court, where there is signage.

TO THE END POINT: A circular walk with the track rejoining the path a litte further along from the start. Follow the paved path back to the start point

About this place

Suitable for walking

Walking track grade: Grade 2; A formed track with gentle hills and the occasional step. Clearly signposted, and no walking experience needed.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by

Sunshine Coast Council

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Safety

Hazards on this trail

Eastern section stays flooded for some time if it's rained recently

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
- Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
- Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
- Always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Be Sun Safe!
- Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.

1 rating

Sue2 years ago

This trail is temporarily closed for maintenance till early 2024!

Fiona7 years ago

Great little walk - easy for all ages and accessibility. Three parks are available within the estate to play or enjoy a BBQ. Take the repellent on dusk after rain.