Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Offering the most spectacular views of the heritage listed Glass House Mountains, the $4.7 million Discovery Centre features an elevated viewing platform and boardwalk and the Rainforest Education Centre with a combination of traditional interactive displays, multi-sensory experiences and exhibits. There is also a theatrette, a conservation research area, offices and modern amenities.
Go on a journey of discovery and be inspired as you enjoy a combination of traditional interactive displays, multi-sensory experiences and exhibits that will be changed seasonally.
Maleny State School captain Isobel Handley checks out one of the interactive exhibits inside the centre
The reserve is a Queensland icon with highly significant conservation values and has been a popular destination for residents and visitors for more than 50 years attracting about 200,000 people annually from around the country and overseas.
History
The Thynne sisters – Elizabeth, Mabel and Mary – with the aid of their brother Ted, originally gifted the reserve land to Council in 1941 in honor of their mother, Mary Cairncross.
What is there?
In addition to the new building, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve comprises 55 hectares of subtropical rainforest overlooking the Glass House Mountains National Landscape. A remnant of the rainforests that once covered the Blackall Range, the Reserve is a living museum of diverse plant and animal life which will delight with its tranquillity and beauty.
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is committed to conserving and enhancing the natural habitat of the area, and providing a valued community resource for education, research, recreation and enjoyment.
Fast Facts:
Where: 148 Mountain View Road, Maleny,
Rainforest Walk hours: 7.00 am - 6.00 pm daily
Rainforest Discovery Centre hours: 9.00 am - 4.30 pm daily. Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day
New café: to open by mid-2017.
Cost: Gold coin donation appreciated
Wheelchair access: Glider Gallery walk and Rainforest Discovery Centre
Walks: Self-guiding or take a pre-booked guided walk with one of the volunteer guides
Other facilities: Picnic tables, shelters and playground
Not allowed: Please be aware that dogs (except for disability companions) and cats are not permitted anywhere in the Reserve.
