Mt Coot-tha's subtropical botanic gardens.
Snapshot
The nearby Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary opened in 1927 at Fig Tree Pocket. Dedicated to the preservation of Australian wildlife, it is the world's first, and largest, koala sanctuary.
Brisbane Forest Park adjoins your area with 28,500 hectares of Council reserves, national parks and state forests. Brisbane Forest Park has facilities to suit everyone. Locals are encouraged to soak up Brisbane's beautiful scenery by picnicking, bushwalking, sightseeing, camping, birdwatching, horse-riding or cycling. For further information contact Brisbane Forest Park on (07) 3300 4855.
Rafting Ground Reserve in Pullenvale takes it name from the 1800s, when it was used as the launch place to float timber down Moggill Creek, then downstream along the Brisbane River to the sawmills.
Shopping
Forgot a few things at the regular grocery shop? Why not leave the car keys behind and pick up what you need on the way home from the bus stop, or take a walk or bike ride to the local shops. The major shopping centre of Indooroopilly Shopping Centre is a bus ride away, and has entertainment arcades and cinemas.
Family fun
For kids:
Parks for kids are great! Check out your local playground because parks in Brisbane have anything from skatebowls to toddler play. In your area try:
- Cubberla Creek Reserve, Kenmore which offers sporting fields and a skating, BMX and rollerblading area.
- Merri Merri Park at Chapel Hill which is home to a basketball half-court, barbecue and playground for family fun.
- Parents and children can enjoy the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium at nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens (Mt Cooth-tha) and learn from its displays and astronomy programs.
For dogs:
Check out the local off-leash areas where Fido can release canine tension. For details and locations, see our list of Brisbane's best dog parks or try these ones in your local area:
- Cubberla Creek Reserve at Kenmore
- Green Hill Reservoir and Merri Merri Park at Chapel Hill
- Jindalee Boat Ramp Park in Jindalee
Take a break
Discover the secrets of your local area. Take a birds-eye view of Brisbane and soak up the beautiful lights of the city from the water tower on Russell Terrace, Chapel Hill. Mt Coot-tha Lookout offers a breathtaking panorama, including the Glass House Mountains, Gold Coast hinterland and Moreton and Stradbroke Islands.
Food & drink
No need to travel far for coffee or a meal - catch up with friends at Kenmore Village on Moggill Road or Mt Coot-tha Lookout - both, perfect meeting points for coffee or lunch.
Exercise
Pools:
Go for laps at the nearby Jindalee Pool (you'll double the exercise by walking there). For locations see our list of Brisbane pools.
Parks:
For fitness and fun, try your nearest park including Jindalee Park or Creekside Park at Kenmore Hills. Why not join your local 'gonewalking' group for fitness or leisure walks with trained walk leaders? For details about walks in your area, phone Council on (07) 3403 8888.
The weekend
Escape from the city to the great outdoors: and in Brisbane, you don't have to go far. Head to the local park for a picnic, or take advantage of Queensland's premier subtropical botanic gardens - the nearby Brisbane Botanic Gardens - Mt Coot-tha. The 52- hectare complex contains more than 5000 species from around the world. Walk alongside the creek at Rafting Ground Reserve at Pullenvale. Mt Coot-tha Forest is also a great place for walking.
Libraries & gardens
Release your mind and take part in the free volunteer guided walks offered by Brisbane Botanic Gardens - Mt Coot-tha. They last an hour and there are different ones each day. Horticultural and art and craft shows are displayed in the Auditorium most weekends. Release your mind at nearby Mt Coot-tha or Indooroopilly Libraries where you'll find not only books but also CDs, DVDs, videos and free internet access (phone the libraries for details).
- Indooroopilly Library: (07) 3407 0009
- Mt Coot-tha Library: (07) 3403 2550
- Call Council 24 hours 7 days: (0&) 3403 8888
Can you recommend a local service or business? Or perhaps a place visitors and residents love? Leave a comment.
