- Things that make your area special
- Pick up milk, bread and paper
- Get the kids and dog out of the house
- Take a break from your routine
- Meet friends you haven't seen in a while
- Exercise for 30 minutes
- Plan something for the weekend
- Release your mind
- Get more information
Snapshot
Bracken Ridge takes its name from the bracken fern that grew extensively in the area before its development. The Bald Hills Primary School, established in June 1866, was only the fourth school to open in Queensland. Bald Hills was named after two grass hills (where cattle duffers allegedly hid stolen cattle). Barrett Street Reserve is renowned for its views of North Brisbane and Moreton Island. Tinchi Tamba comes from the Indigenous word 'tinchi' meaning mangrove and 'tamba' meaning ibis. Energetic cyclists can take the bike track starting at Cullimore Street out to the Moreton Bay foreshores of Brighton, Sandgate and Shorncliffe or through to the Boondall Wetlands.
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. Check the map for local convenience centres. The major shopping centres of Strathpine Shopping Centre and Taigum Central are a bus ride away. Strathpine Shopping Centre also has cinemas.
Family fun
For kids: check your local playground - parks in Brisbane have anything from skatebowls to toddler play. In your area, try McPherson Park, Bracken Ridge, or Harold Kielly Park, Bracken Ridge for family fun. Enjoy the basketball half-court, skating, BMX, roller blading or plan a barbecue with friends or family.
For dogs: check out the local off-leash areas where Fido can release canine tension. Try Barungwarra Bushland Reserve or Gus Davies Park, Bald Hills or Enbrook Parkland, Bracken Ridge.
Take a break
Discover the natural environment of your local area. The significant wetland area of Tinchi Tamba is home to more than 200 species of birds including jabiru, avocets and magpie geese - all rare around Brisbane. Pack a picnic and head to Deep Water Bend. You might even choose to explore the wetlands from your own boat or canoe. If you enjoy wildlife spotting, arrive at Bald Hills Creek at low tide one morning to see the wading birds feed or try a bit of frog spotlighting after a summer evening barbeque.
Meet friends
No need to travel far for coffee or a meal - catch up with friends at Bald Hills Road, off Gympie Road. See the ceramic artwork created with the help of local school children and incorporating an Indigenous theme.
Exercise
Who's got time? Everyone, if you make exercise part of your everyday life. You could walk to the nearest bus stop and catch the bus to work, or take the kids to school. 3 x 10 mins daily exercise is recommended for good health. For fun and fitness, try your nearest Active and Healthy Park including Canterbury Park, Bald Hills or Barrett Street Reserve, Bracken Ridge.
The weekend
Escape from the city to the great outdoors: and in Brisbane, you don't have to go far. Take a picnic to the local park, or explore the famous Tinchi Tamba Wetlands Reserve that lies between Pine River and Bald Hills Creek. Deep Water Bend Reserve has a boat ramp, picnic facilities, boardwalk and wharf. A popular fishing destination, you can even throw a line from the riverbank. Don't forget the insect repellent, midges are about on still days! Take the cycle or walkway along Cabbage Tree Creek, access from Roghan Road, Fitzgibbon. Bird watchers flock to Canterbury Park on Feurriegel Road, Bald Hills, located on the banks of the South Pine River.
Learn
Release your mind at Bracken Ridge Library where you'll find not only books but also CDs, DVDs, videos, free internet access, even storytelling sessions for children (phone the library for details). Jabiru Youth Services at Bracken Ridge offers computers and internet access for members, plus a wide range of activities and classes for young people. It's a great way to meet new people and learn new skills.
Useful info
Bracken Ridge Library 3667 6060 Call Council 24 hours 7 days 3403 8888.
