Each month our Bush Ramble invites you to join us as we explore and enjoy our varied urban bushlands, wetlands and forests.

This month we are delighted to have Una Sandeman and Dr Richard Noske leading us on a guided walk through Sandy Camp Wetlands.

Join us in September when our Bush Ramble will take us to:

THE BIRDING HAVEN OF SANDY CAMP WETLANDS

Our leaders:

Una is a committed nature advocate, artist and amateur photographer who has lived in the area for over 35 years. She is a talented photographer who has extensive knowledge of the birds and the wetland ecosystems through which she will lead the Ramble.

Una is passionate about the environmental, and Samoan and Tongan heritage has given her a deep cultural connection to the land and water. She is passionate about preserving and protecting our precious ecosystems. Una was a central environmental campaigner in the fight to protect Toondah Harbour from destruction, and during this time she photographed and recorded hundreds of shore birds along the harbour.

Dr Richard Noske has a long-standing interest in Sandy Camp, having completed 36 surveys since Jan 2020, mainly to monitor the numbers and timing of breeding Cormorants and Darters, as well as the flowering phenology of paperbarks, Forest Red Gums and mistletoes of four species in this area. Richard was senior lecturer in Biology at Charles Darwin University for 26 years before moving to Brisbane in 2010. His main interests are avian breeding biology, foraging ecology and the flowering patterns of eucalypts. He has written and co-written three books and 120 peer reviewed journal articles. He was President of Birds Queensland from 2012 to 2015.

Between them, Richard and Una have a wealth of knowledge and information to share, and this walk is not one to be missed!!

Nestled near Wynnum, east of Brisbane, Sandy Camp Wetland offers a serene escape for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. This hidden gem is a mosaic of ponds, lagoons, and walking tracks, perfect for exploring in any weather. Despite its urban surroundings, bordered by warehouses, railways, a motorway, and school grounds; it’s a thriving sanctuary for birdlife.

The Wetland is home to diverse birdlife: encounter an impressive array of species, from graceful Magpie Geese and Royal Spoonbills to the vibrant Sacred Kingfisher and Rainbow Bee-eater. Keep an eye out for the elusive Comb-crested Jacana and Chestnut-breasted Mannikin among the wetlands. Explore the Lily Pad Lagoon, where you might spot Australian Reed Warblers singing from the reeds or White-breasted Woodswallows gliding overhead.

Scenic Walks wander along well-maintained trails totalling 3 km, offering access to a variety of habitats. Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or a curious visitor, Sandy Camp Wetland promises a peaceful retreat into nature, showcasing the beauty of Australia’s avian diversity.

We will meet at 7:45am for an 8:00am start, taking advantage of morning light, ideal for birdwatching and photography.

All photographs have been taken by Una Sandeman.

Access & Parking: Sandy Camp Road Bushland Reserve, Sandy Camp Road, Wynnum West, Qld, 4178

Parking is opposite Iona College Playing Fields. Roadside parking is available.

WHEN: Sunday 7 September 2025, 7:45am - 9:30am

WHERE: Sandy Camp Road Bushland Reserve, Sandy Camp Road, Wynnum West, Qld, 4178

WHAT TO BRING: Binoculars and cameras if you have them, water, sunscreen, mozzie repellent, hats and walking shoes

Bring a flask of water/tea/coffee and stay around for a cuppa after the walk.

Numbers are limited, so please register here. Tickets are $2.00.

Map and directions here:

27°26'07.9"S 153°08'58.4"E

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2P2kuS2a15E2xThs6