Tinchi Tamba Wetlands (Island Circuit)
Brisbane
Boondall Wetlands Reserve
A bird-watchers paradise, this walk features plenty of flora and fauna, running adjacent to the North Pine River, and sensational for sunset.
This moderately trafficked walk starts at the car park at the end of Wyampa Road in Bald Hills (just past the Deep Water Bend boat ramp car park).
The track involves graded paths and lovely wooden boardwalks.
From the trailhead, follow the signs for the Island Circuit, which passes through the Tinchi Tamba wetlands, alongside the upper reaches of the North Pine River.
The boardwalk beside the river is beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset. A small beach on the banks of the North Pine River is a great place for bird watching, with views downstream to Deep Water Bend and upstream to some small islands.
The track then loops through the wetlands, with a number of vegetation changes, including mangroves, eucalypt and paperback forest.
Once back at the trailhead, follow the signs for the Bird-hide Track, through open grasslands to a bird-hide on the banks of Bald Hills Creek overlooking exposed mudflats at low tide. This is obviously another great location for bird watching.
There is also the option to wander down to Deep Water Bend, a popular boat/kayak launching area with picnic tables, BBQs, a playground and fishing platforms.
The wetlands are named after the Indigenous words for ‘ibis’ and ‘mangroves’ and are an important habitat for migratory shorebirds during summer, making this a must-do for birdwatchers.
Track: The walk consists of graded paths and wooden boardwalks. The tracks are well-signed and easy to follow.
Difficulty: The walk is suitable for all fitness levels.
Direction: The Island Circuit is a loop track best completed in a clockwise direction, while the Bird-Hide Circuit is an out-and-back track that returns the way it came.
getting there
The walk starts from the car park at the end of Wyampa Road in Bald Hills (about 200m past the car park for the Deep Water Bend boat ramp), 30 minutes drive north of Brisbane.
Parking is ample for how trafficked the walk is.
best time to go
The walk can be completed year-round, however the path is exposed to the sun in some sections so would be less desirable during the hottest part of the day in warmer months.
Remember, whenever venturing into the outdoors, practice the Leave No Trace principles and be considerate of others. This means: dispose of your waste properly, don't remove things or move things from their natural position and respect all wildlife. Also be sure to plan ahead and adequately prepare for any adventure.
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which all activities listed on this website are found, as well as Elders past, present and emerging. I strive to not promote sites where requests have been made for people not to explore due to the cultural significance of the site to Indigenous peoples, or note how to respectfully visit a site. If I have a promoted a site with cultural significance, please send me a message and let me know.