Horizon Guides: Bushwalks February - August 2025

Hello wonderful Horizon Guides bushwalkers!
 
For those new to Horizon Guides – welcome and thank you for finding us - it will be great to meet you on a walk soon.  Horizon Guides has been sharing the Scenic Rim with walkers since 2008 – we love our back yard!
ECO NEWS FLASH Scenic Rim announced as Australia’s 12th ECO Destination and Queensland’s 6th:  Our beloved Scenic Rim Region has now achieved global recognition with ECO Destination Certification. As a Green Travel Leader, Horizon Guides is proud to be a part of the Eco-Tourism network, linking us to like-minded operators around the world. It takes a great deal of commitment and hard work to achieve these lofty goals and it’s incredibly encouraging to know that so many individuals and organisations are striving to operate sustainably, educate others and thereby make our planet a better place for all life.
 
At Horizon Guides, our walks are all about enjoying being in nature – observing the worlds about us, marvelling and learning about the life we encounter, enjoying the views, breathing deeply and carrying some of that peace back home. They are also about learning how to bushwalk safely and managing ourselves in different conditions with small groups of like-minded souls. By hiking regularly, over time, you’ll develop a great repertoire of skills and grow in confidence for future adventures. The Scenic Rim and SE Queensland offer a tremendous variety of bushwalking challenges and is an excellent place to truly become a ‘bushwalker’!
 
Bookings are now open for DAY HIKES for February to August. There will also be extended interstate trips and weekend camps throughout 2025 … details will be available when dates and plans are finalized!
 
BOOK NOW and be in the draw for THREE early-bird GIVE-AWAYS!!!
                 
DRAW 1: Wilderness Equipment Deluge Rain Shell valued at $299.95
DRAW 2: Lifestraw Peak Series 1lt squeeze bottle water filter valued at $89.95
DRAW 3: Life Venture 300ml Thermal Mug valued at $29.95

 
This offer is simple and works as follows. To be in the draw:

  • Complete the reservation form and pay for any two walks by Valentine’s Day Friday 14 February.
  • On Saturday15th February we will be drawing the winners - yay!
We begin our program as the days roll towards Autumn and the hint of glorious winter days ahead is in the air!  Here are our bush walks - read on – and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. all of your walk preferences from this program. Click on the links below to download the Reservation/Medical Consent form the T&Cs. Payment details are on the form.

WALK 1: Upper Ballunjui Falls (Binna Burra, Lamington NP) Approx 10.5km Return Approx 5hrs. GRADE: Moderate
Sunday 23 February Cost: $95pp
This lovely return walk in the Nixon Creek headwaters begins on the Border Track at Binna Burra and branches off the Ship Stern Track. With cool closed canopy rainforest overhead, sweet waterfalls and two lookout points, it’s an ideal place to begin our 2025 bushwalk year.
 
WALK 2: Paddy’s Falls Explore (Mt Barney NP) Approx 8km 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate +
Sunday 9 March Cost: $95pp
This off-track bushwalk southwest of Mt Maroon to Paddy’s Falls is an adventurous outing to a swimming spot. We have options for a loop walk that takes in nearby ridges and features. There are interesting cliff areas and magnificent views that you won’t see on a regular excursion into this area. NB We cross Mt Barney Creek near the trail-head at the start and finish of the walk. Note: The trip will suit bush walkers with some experience keen for a real ‘off-track’ adventure. You must be confident walking on natural terrain (no track) and rock hopping along a creek bed.
 
WALK 3: Yowgurrabah (private property) Approx 7.5km return 5 - 6 hrs Moderate - Challenging (rough trail) 
Sunday 16 March $95pp + $10 cash for the landowner.
Every now and again we have the opportunity to walk in places that are by invitation only. This walk is one of those - nestled in the Numinbah Valley, 'Yowgurrabah' feels like an important place - with treasures at every turn. It's not a long walk - we will take our time and tread carefully in deference to just having the chance to be in this place. (If you want more details than this you'll just have to book the trip and find out for yourself!)

WALK 4. Apple Tree Park to Purlingbrook Falls Trail Head (Springbrook NP) Approx 7.1km on way 5+ hrs (car shuffle required)
GRADE: Moderate
WEDNESDAY 26 March Cost: $95pp
Today’s walk is the last section of the GC Hinterland Great Walk. Initially taking the power line easement for about 1km the track then drops down into the catchment of the Little Nerang Dam. After crossing Little Nerang Creek the track heads upstream up the side of a narrow gorge with pools and cascades cut into older rocks from beneath the ancient Tweed volcano. After 1km the track emerges at a basalt slab above the beautiful Warringa Pool.
The track continues on the other side of the creek to Purling Brook Falls, where a massive cliff of cream-coloured rhyolite, 100m high, looms over a deep gorge of black basalt. After crossing the suspension bridge, a steady climb brings you back to the top of the plateau. Just before crossing the top of Purling Brook, the track branches left to The Settlement camping area where we end our hike.
 
WALK 5: Cleared Ridge – Mt Montserrat Lookout (1012m) – Upper Portals – Yamarah Ck. (Mt Barney NP) Approx 11km 7-8 hrs Elevation +/- 600m GRADE: Moderate + 

Sunday 30 March Cost: $110pp
This excellent circuit begins on Cleared Ridge overlooking the Burnett Valley. From Yamahra Creek we gain the west spur of Montserrat, continuing until the rocky summit is reached. The views of Mt Barney are superb. Descent is via a steep spur that brings us to the junction of Yamahra Creek and Mt Barney Creek. After lunch at the Upper Portals we take the fire trail back along the valley floor, criss-crossing Yamarah Creek as Montserrat has a remote feel and with most of the walking on single trails, you’ll feel like you’ve been on a real ‘bushwalk”.
 
WALK 6: Knapp’s Peak Reserve (Private access) Approx. 7.5km Moderate/Challenging OFF TRACK Elevation +/- 270m 5-6hrs
Sunday 6 April $95pp + $10 cash for the landowner.
This striking peak lies to the north of Mt Maroon on private land. Significant cliffs and rock outcrops support diverse flora and fauna. This is an OFF-TRACK bushwalk so be prepared for uneven footing and steep sections throughout. The easterly views from the top are rewarding and we may be entertained by peregrine falcons in the updraughts! A great introduction to off-track walking, on a little-visited peak.
 
WALK 7. Lower Portals Evening walk Moonlight return (Mt Barney NP) Approx. 7km Return  ~ 5 hrs
GRADE: Moderate 

Sunday 13 April (FULL MOON) Cost: $95 pp
Beginning mid afternoon at the Lower Portals car park the obvious track crosses a number of small ridges and gullies before crossing Mt Barney Creek. A short distance upstream is the glorious Upper Portals water hole. Here we'll cool off and enjoy a back-pack dinner before walking back by moonlight.
 
WALK 8: Mt May Peaks (Mt Barney NP) Approx. 6km / 5+ hrs Elevation +/- 500m. GRADE: Moderate-Challenging
Friday 25 April (ANZAC Day) Cost: $95 pp
An off-track circuit bushwalk that begins at Waterfall Creek Campground and first ascends the main track to the Mt May ridge. From here we ascend the North Peak of May then carefully make our way to a small saddle before ascending the South Peak of May. A short rocky scramble brings us onto the spur that leads to the descent route on the 4WD track with a side trip to the Waterfall on return.

WALK 9: Wilsons Peak Summit (1229m) and descent to Teviot Gap. Elevation +/- 479m. 6 + hrs. Challenging.
Sunday 11 May Cost: $110 pp
Wilson’s Peak – Jirramun - is a clear monument on the Main Range rising above the ridge as an isolated peak. The ascent is very steep though relatively straightforward along the Rabbit Board Fence. Rainforest giants dominate the beginning of the track but as the climb steepens there are distinct changes in the vegetation until the trachyte summit cliffs are reached. Picking our way along the base a break in the cliffs allows access via easy scrambling to the summit. There are views through a forest ‘window’ and it’s a lovely spot for lunch. After enjoying the summit we scramble back down to the track and take the route of the original Rabbit Fence that follows a spur that drops off the mountain and ends at the Gap. As this is a ‘through walk’ a car shuffle is required. 
 
WALK 10: Boonah Border Gate to Kinnanes Falls (Main Range NP) Approx 7.5km 5hrs. Moderate/challenging.
Sunday 18 May Cost: $95 pp
Today’s bush walk begins with some very scenic driving to position cars at the end of the walk on the Head Road then driving up Carney’s Creek Road to the Rabbit Fence where we will begin the walk.
The first few kms provides easy going (up and over a couple of knolls) along the Fence with tall forests all around. The point where we begin the descent to Kinnanes has panoramic views across the Fassifern – a good spot to stop for a snack. From here it’s ‘off-track’ all the way and great attention to what’s underfoot will be needed! The grass is long and rocks are plenty… fortunately, the views are splendid and we will pause often enough to enjoy them. Wilson’s Creek is reached via a beautiful grass-tree covered spur and it’s from here that the waters spill over multi-tiered Kinnanes Falls – one of the most beautiful sights in the Main Range. Then it’s a VERY steep descent to the Head Road and our cars.
 
WALK 11: Ivory’s Rock Circuit (Private Property) Approx 8km circuit. 4 – 5 hrs. Moderate
Sunday 1 June Cost: $95pp
What a way to welcome winter J This intriguing hike takes us to the base of the prominent peaks near Peak Crossing south of Ipswich. A loop track threads its way across the landscape beneath the rock features and to several lookouts with views across the forested valleys and beyond. It’s a great walk through varied geological epochs and different forest types.
 
WALK 12: Waterfall Gorge – Mt Greville Circuit (Moogerah Peaks NP) 6 – 7 hrs. Challenging. Rough and rocky.
Sunday 8 June Cost $95pp
This rugged little peak is one of the gems of the Fassifern. It has such wonderful diversity of habitat, flora and fauna that every turn in the track is a surprise. The route ascends the peak via Waterfall Gorge threading through a jumbled array of rocks between narrow towering cliffs that protect Piccabeen palms and giant White Beech trees. Emerging from the Gorge the route crosses the forested ridge to a magnificent lookout before joining the walking track to the summit. The return route to the vehicles brings us back through heath-land and over rhyolite slabs that support many wildflowers, ferns and orchids and on through open forest to complete the circuit.
 
WALKS 13: WINTER SOLSTICE Weekend Camp at Goomburra, Main Range NP
Saturday 21 – Sunday 22 June Cost: TBA
Let’s gather to celebrate the shortest day of 2025 with a base camp at Manna Gum by pristine Dalrymple Creek! There will be a walk each day and much to enjoy about pulling out all your wooly winter gear to sleep under a frosty, starry sky. More details to follow – please let us know if you are keen J
 
WALK 14. Kerry Valley private property Approx. 7km Return  ~ 5 hrs
GRADE: Moderate - Challenging

Sunday 13 July Cost: $95 pp (+ $10 cash pp donation to the property owners)
A beautiful off-track circuit walk to a peak at 525m with expansive views across the valley.
 
WALK 15: Campbell’s Folly (Private Property) Approx 5 hrs walking + lunch time. GRADE: Challenging – rough off-track. Cliff edges in places.
Sunday 20 July Cost: $95 pp (+ $10 cash pp donated to the property owners)
Some places are just magic and ‘The Rock’ property is one of them. Towering above the family home are tremendous cave-dotted cliffs, home to peregrine falcons, rock wallabies and many unique plant species. Geologically it’s part of the Mt Gillies Rhyolite unit, outliers to Mt Barney.
The approach is through rolling green paddocks with awe-inspiring views of Mt Lindesay from every angle. Making our way up the wooded western slope of the peak we eventually reach the top – and the wonderful vista. We return by the same route.
 
WALK 16: Albert River Circuit (Lamington NP, Green Mountains Section) 21.8km 7 – 8hrs GRADE: Moderate.
Sunday 3 August Cost: $110 pp
This is a gem of a walk and one of our favourites! “We start out along the famous Border Track and at the 5km mark begin to descend through forests of Antarctic beech to a lush rainforest gully featuring Echo Falls. This is the perfect spot to take a break by the sweet mountain water. It’s uphill from here, following a branch of the Albert River upstream to Echo Point lookout. Enjoy panoramic views from Mount Wupawn to Mount Durigan on the McPherson Range and south to the Tweed Range. These peaks are all part of the erosion caldera that surrounds Mount Warning, once a central volcanic plug. Traditional Owners of the Bundjalang language group call this mighty plug 'Wollumbin' (cloud-catcher). Continue east along the Queensland–New South Wales border to Cominan lookout and then turn north-west to connect back up with the Border Track. In September when the beech orchids Dendrobium falcorostrum are flowering, this circuit takes on a particular charm, with the delicate orchids contrasting with the massive trunks to which they cling.” Source: adapted from QPWS website.
 
WALK 17: Mt Superbus and the 1955 wreck of the Lincoln Bomber (Main Range NP) 13.5km Approx. 9 hrs. Challenging with very steep grades to Mt Superbus 1372m (612m elevation gain)
Sunday 10 August Cost: $110pp
This hike takes us to a rather sombre destination but one of particular historical interest as well. The steep challenging walk through dense rainforest takes us over the summit of Mt Superbus, the second highest peak in Queensland and onto the site of the tragic crash of the Lincoln Bomber in the early hours of 9 April 1955. It was on a mercy dash from Townsville to Brisbane with a two day old baby suffering severe jaundice. Flying at low altitude the crew for some reason found themselves on a route to the west of the Range instead of approaching Brisbane over Caboolture. The results of this error were catastrophic. A bushwalking group in the area heard the crash just after 4am and quickly organised to alert the authorities. Within hours it was ascertained there were no survivors. Large sections of the wreck remain at the site though there have been souvenir hunters over the years. This is a return walk so we will retrace our steps by the same track.
 
WALK 18: Lophostemon Ridge - Steamers CIRCUIT  (Main Range NP) Approx 15km / 9hrs (including breaks) Challenging – ‘foot-pad track’. Truly spectacular!
Sunday 31 August Cost: $110pp
A two-hour drive (last bit requires 4WD) brings us to the start of this walk however it’s worth the journey to visit one of the most dramatic geologic features in SE Queensland! The Steamers rise as steep cliff sections atop a ridge to the west of the Main Range NW of Mt Superbus. They are named the Prow, Funnel, Mast and Stern for their resemblance to a massive ship. The views along the Main Range and from the western end of the Stern are some of the best in the region. There is no real ‘track’ so be prepared for very steep climbs and descents and rough ground throughout.
NB The final section to the viewpoint off the end of the Stern involves an exposed and very narrow short section of ridge. Extreme care is required and this part is not recommended for those nervous of heights. The walk is still very rewarding without this final scramble.


NB The program is SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, including adverse weather forecasts, at the discretion of our guides.
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any queries about particular walks or concerns about your ability to participate. 

To reserve your walks: Send us an This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your preferred walks and attach your completed reservation form. Click on the links below to download the Reservation/Medical Consent form the T&Cs. Don’t take too long to decide as the walks generally book out very quickly (some within a few days!).
Payment for day hikes must be made 14 days prior  to the walk (cash or direct payment) - a reminder will be sent by text or email.

  • Price $95 - $110pp for a day hike. Refer to T&Cs for cancellation policy.
  • See individual events for relevant pricing.
  • Small groups: Generally a maximum of 8-10 participants + guide/s.
  • Beginner bush walkers are welcome.

WHAT'S INCLUDED...

  • Variety of walks and levels of challenge in the region.
  • Experienced & qualified guide/s with Wilderness First Aid certification.
  • Guides carry relevant emergency equipment including PLB.
  • Hot cuppa at lunch + a treat
  • Participant gear list appropriate to the walk.
  • Interpretation appropriate to the place - flora, fauna, geology, history.
  • Great fun with like-minded people.

ABOUT OUR WALKS Our day-long eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond. Groups are small and walks are spaced out to allow time for recovery (and training) for the next walk. You can do as many or few walks as you wish but bear in mind that it’s a good idea to keep up regular walking in between to maintain fitness for the next hike. The hikes offer a range of challenges so read the notes carefully before reserving your place.
 
These are group hikes and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience, so we won't be galloping by all the interesting bits!  For safety reasons you are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!  
 
No drones are allowed under any circumstances.


Come walking with Horizon Guides this season!

See you all very soon - yours in bushwalking!

Your Guides,

Teresa and Sally

 PS This content has been generated from the mind and imagination of ... a human ... and not by AI. Let's keep our brains agile and creative and having fun! 

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Horizon Guides: Bushwalks June - November 2024

2024 walks and events program

For those new to Horizon Guides – welcome - It will be great to meet you on a walk soon. Horizon Guides has been sharing the Scenic Rim with walkers since 2008 – we love our back yard! Our walks are all about enjoying being outside – observing the worlds about us, learning about the life we encounter, enjoying the views, breathing deeply and carrying some of that peace back home. They are also about learning how to bushwalk safely and managing ourselves in different conditions with small groups of like-minded souls. By hiking regularly, over time, you’ll develop a great repertoire of skills and grow in confidence for future adventures. The Scenic Rim offers a tremendous variety of bushwalking challenges and is an excellent place to truly become a ‘bushwalker’!

As a thank you to our guests we are GIVING AWAY a Helinox Chair ZERO (RRP $199.95) to one lucky person – wow! At only 500gms, this is an accessory you will quickly find is your best friend – and it will stay in your pack and go with you everywhere ? We will draw this on  30 June - so you still have time to enter...
 
The offer is simple and works as follows:
- Make a reservation and pay for two of the walks in advance.
- The
first 25 people to do this will be in the draw to win the chair! You can either drop in to Far Outdoors in Boonah to collect, be united with it on your first bushwalk or we will post it to you.

This program is for our walks from June - November 2024. Most are Sunday walks but look out for the Wednesday ones - lovely mid-week escapes!

Contact us if you have any queries about particular walks or concerns about your ability to participate.

To reserve your walks:
Send us an This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your preferred walks and attach your completed reservation form. You can download the PDF reservation / medical consent form and T&Cs from the links below. Don’t take too long to decide as the walks generally book out very quickly (some within a few days!). Once we have received your reservation request we will respond to confirm your booking.


SPOTS AVAILABLE from current program WALK 15: Campbell’s Folly (Private Property) Approx 5 hrs walking + lunch time. GRADE: Challenging – rough off-track. Cliff edges in places. 
Sunday 16 June Cost: $95 pp ($10 pp donated to the property owners)
Some places are just magic and ‘The Rock’ property is one of them. Towering above the family home are tremendous cave-dotted cliffs, home to peregrine falcons, rock wallabies and many unique plant species. Geologically it’s part of the Mt Gillies Rhyolite unit, outliers to Mt Barney.
The approach is through rolling green paddocks with awe-inspiring views of Mt Lindesay from every angle. Making our way up the wooded western slope of the peak we eventually reach the top – and the wonderful vista. We return by the same route.
  

WALK 1: Paddy’s Ridge area explore (Mt Barney NP) Approx 8km 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate +

Sunday 30 June  Cost: $85 pp
This off-track bushwalk southwest of Mt Maroon to Paddy’s Falls is an adventurous outing in the heart of wild country. We have options for a loop walk that takes in nearby ridges and features. There are interesting cliff areas and magnificent views that you won’t see on a regular excursion into this area. NB We cross Mt Barney Creek near the trail-head at the start and finish of the walk. Note: The trip will suit bush walkers with some experience keen for a real ‘off-track’ adventure. You must be confident walking on natural terrain (no track).


*** JUST 3 PLACES LEFT *** on our  Introduction to Navigation Course with Caro Ryan from Lots of Fresh Air - an excellent course for everyone who loves to go bush! 13 - 15 July 2024



WALK 2: Mt Matthieson Circuit (Main Range NP) 8km. Approx. 6 hrs GRADE: Moderate track with some short, steep rough sections.
Sunday 21 July Cost: $95 pp

There is nothing quite as magical as being in the bush as day gives way to the night – especially on a full moon!  Mt Matthieson is a favourite circuit walk and one of the most diverse and historically interesting circuits on the Range. Starting at the Spicer’s Gap picnic area near the pioneer grave site the track climbs gradually through rainforest before coming onto a ridgeline of open eucalypt forest. From Mt Matthieson (752m) the track follows a sharp ridge with bird’s eye views of the Great Divide. Small volcanic cliffs add variety with ferns and orchids sheltering in their crevices. Turning southwest the track meanders through rainforest before opening out onto old logging tracks and joining the historic basalt-cobbled pioneer road. This takes us back to the start via the Governors Chair lookout where we will have dinner and watch the moonrise from 5pm. From here it’s about a 30-minute walk to the vehicles.

WALK 3: Waterfall Gorge – Mt Greville (Moogerah Peaks NP) 7+ hrs. GRADE: Challenging. Rough and rocky.
Sunday 4 August Cost: $95 

This rugged little peak is one of the gems of the Fassifern. It has such wonderful diversity of habitat, flora and fauna that every turn in the track is a surprise. The route ascends the peak via Waterfall Gorge threading through a jumbled array of rocks between narrow towering cliffs that protect Piccabeen palms and giant White Beech trees. Emerging from the Gorge the route crosses the forested ridge to a magnificent lookout before joining the walking track to the summit. The return route to the vehicles brings us back through heath-land and over rhyolite slabs that support many wildflowers, ferns and orchids and on through open forest to complete the circuit.

WALK 4: Rocky Knoll - Goolman Lookout Circuit, Hardings Paddock. 7.5km 4 - 5 hrs GRADE: Moderate
Sunday 18 August Cost: $85 

"The Flinders-Goolman conservation estate is over 1900 hectares in area supporting extensive forests and rugged volcanic peaks and slopes including Flinders Peak, and Mounts Blaine, Catherine and Goolman. The Estate is an important wildlife refuge supporting 136 bird, 25 mammal, 13 reptile and 8 amphibian species as well as 531 different flora species. The multi-user Goolman Lookout trail winds its way to Goolman Lookout where you enjoy spectacular views of Mt Goolman and Ivory's Rock, Scenic Rim and Brisbane. On a clear day, it's possible to see the Pacific Ocean." (Tourism & Events Qld) The trail is wide and straightforward and it's a lovely walk practically on the doorstep of the city.

WALK 5: Boonah Border Gate to Kinnanes Falls (Main Range NP) 7.5km 5 - 6 hrs + travel time. GRADE: Moderate/Challenging OFF TRACK. 
Sunday 25 August Cost: $95 pp
Today’s bush walk begins with some very scenic driving to position cars at the end of the walk on the Head Road then driving up Carney’s Creek Road to the Rabbit Fence where we will begin the walk.
The first few kms provides easy going (up and over a couple of knolls) along the Fence with tall forests all around. The point where we begin the descent to Kinnanes has panoramic views across the Fassifern – a good spot to stop for a snack. From here it’s ‘off-track’ all the way and great attention to what’s underfoot will be needed! The grass is long and rocks are plenty… fortunately, the views are splendid and we will pause often enough to enjoy them. Wilson’s Creek is reached via a beautiful grass-tree covered spur and it’s from here that the waters spill over multi-tiered Kinnanes Falls – one of the most beautiful sights in the Main Range. Then it’s a VERY steep descent to the Head Road and our cars.
We can make this a round-trip scenic trip by driving up the Head Road and back to the Border Gate via White Swamp.

WALK 6: Cascades Circuit (Main Range NP – Goomburra) Approx. 6.5km return 5 – 6 hrs. GRADE: Moderate
Sunday 1 Sept Cost: $95 pp
This is a very lovely walk that commences at the Manna Gum camping area and follows the course of Dalrymple Creek up to its headwaters. There is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the cascades and pools along the ascent track. There are some steep sections but there's no rush! The circuit is completed via old logging trails that follow the ridge before dropping steeply back down to the trailhead.

WALK 7: Secret Spring (Mt Maroon foothills) Approx. 10 km 4 - 5 hrs GRADE: Easy / moderate. Through walk on fire trails.
Sunday 8 September Cost: $85 pp

Mt Maroon has many secrets and today we visit a sweet spring that runs tea-coloured clear all year round – even during the deepest drought. Most of our walk is through eucalypt forest and along the way vistas open out on to the peaks and valleys of the Mt Barney area. Being in the foothills the terrain is undulating so you can expect some short ascents and descents. Our walk starts at Cotswold Rd and ends at Mt Barney Creek. A car shuffle is required.

WALK 8: Caves Track – 3km and Gwongoorool Pool – 5.8km return Elev. +/- 250m (Lamington NP – Binna Burra) 6 – 7 hrs GRADE: Moderate (there are many stairs!!)
WEDNESDAY 18 September Cost: $85 pp
What a lovely treat to go for a beautiful bushwalk on a Spring Wednesday! Today is a link up of two of the Lamington’s classic short walks. Beginning near the Binna Burra Teahouse the graded track is an intriguing journey through different forest zones thriving on steep western slopes above the Coomera River valley. As the track loses altitude eons of volcanic geology are revealed culminating in spectacular caves carved out of the escarpment. The track takes us up to the Visitor Centre then onto the Gwongoorool Pool track. This return track culminates in a gorgeous pool on the Coomera River.

WALK 9: Lizard Point (Main Range NP) Approx. 12km / 9 hours return. Steep & rough terrain. Challenging. 
Sunday 22 September Cost: $95 pp

Lizard Point juts from the Main Range as a prominent shelf on the skyline north of Mt Roberts. It’s quite a spectacular view-point from which to survey the headwaters of Carneys and Wild Cattle Creeks and many of the peaks of the Fassifern. This ridge walk through dense rainforest is rough and challenging. From Teviot Gap it involves a steep climb following the line of the old rabbit fence to gain the ridgeline and then takes a rough rocky foot track through rainforest and over Mt Roberts (1327m) before the trail brings us out to Lizard Point. We return by the same route.

WALK 10: PROPOSED Pack trek on Rabbit Board Fence. Approx. 45km over 3 days Easy/moderate.
Saturday 5 - Monday 7 October. COST: TBA

We are taking expressions of interest in this fun trek involving self-supported hiking - that is carrying all your own kit! A great introduction to multi-day pack walking in a supportive environment.

WALK 11: Dave’s Creek Circuit (Lamington NP, Binna Burra Section) 12 km Approx. 5 – 6hrs. Moderate.
WEDNESDAY 16 October Cost: $85

This walk is a wonderful introduction to the botanical diversity of the eastern Lamington Plateau and the geology on which it thrives. Beginning on the Border Track the track “descends through the head of Kurraragin Valley out into Daves Creek country. The circuit passes through several distinctive vegetation types: warm and cool subtropical rainforest along the Border Track; warm temperate rainforest, containing many examples of ancient angiosperms such as coachwood Ceratopetalum apetalum, in Nixon Creek's headwaters; and wet sclerophyll forest with giant New England ash Eucalyptus campanulata.” (NPRSR track note) Besides the vegetation, panoramic views and interesting geologic features such Molongolee Cave and Surprise Rock make this walk intriguing at every turn.
A variant for the return trip will take us off the Border Track along the Tullawallal Track to stand in an ancient grove of Antarctic Beech (Nothofagus moorei).

TASSIE TRACKS: Southern Sojourn To round out your year of walking why not join our 10 day Tassie Tracks: Southern Sojourn 9 -18 November! Full details are almost finalised... our itinerary takes in iconic walks at Tasman Peninsula - Huon Valley - Bruny Island. Carry only a day-pack - head down to Tassie this summer and breath deep of that glorious southern air!


NB Please remember the program is SUBJECT TO CHANGE FOR A VARIETY OF REASONS, including adverse weather forecasts, at the discretion of our guides.

ABOUT OUR WALKS Our day-long eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond. Groups are small and walks are spaced out to allow time for recovery (and training) for the next walk. You can do as many or few walks as you wish but bear in mind that it’s a good idea to keep up regular walking in between to maintain fitness for the next hike. The hikes offer a range of challenges so read the notes carefully before reserving your place.

These are group hikes and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience. You are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!    No drones please. 

Our aim is to get out and explore the many facets of our amazing region, note the changes and develop a deeper understanding of the natural richness on our doorstep and, of course, become walking fit with a wonderful group of like-minded bushwalkers.

The nature of the Scenic Rim terrain means that there are few ‘easy’ walks on graded trails. The majority of routes feature uneven ground and ascents and descents, often with rocky sections. The gradients are sometimes very steep. We always allow plenty of time to complete walks so that there is not the necessity to speed through walks or to feel you are not keeping up.

PLEASE NOTE: Participants transport themselves to the start of the walk after meeting at the pre-arranged rendezvous point for the day. (Usually an optional car pool is arranged on the day.) Details of the meeting place and times are emailed one week prior to the walk, along with the names of fellow walkers and a list of necessary items to bring.

Come walking with Horizon Guides this season! 
See you all very soon - yours in bushwalking.

Yours Guides,

Teresa and Sally

 

 

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Horizon Guides - 2024 Intro to Navigation with Caro Ryan (LotsaFreshAir)

INTRODUCTION TO NAVIGATION with Caro Ryan of LotsaFreshAir.

To reserve your place, first This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to make sure there is space (if the course is full you can request to be placed on a waiting list).

Day One (Classroom) & Day Two (Field) Sat 13, Sun 14 July 2024

What you’ll learn:

Over two jam-packed days, you’ll learn the foundations of navigating with a map and compass for tracked and untracked areas. Topics will include:

  • Reading, understanding (and falling in love with) topographic maps
  • Learning to ‘read the ground’
  • Demystifying stuff like datums, projections, scales, declination and the ‘3 different norths’
  • Becoming best friends with your compass and learning how to use it
  • Route planning and finding
  • Taking bearings
  • How to figure out where you are
  • Estimating time and distance

All of this is backed up with practical exercises and workshops in the field. We’ll also briefly touch on:

  • Lat Long (Latitude Longitude)
  • Smartphone apps and GPS for navigation and hiking

Day Three – putting it all into practice! Mon 15 July 2024

Monday is all about taking your newfound skills and confidence and heading out bushwalking! We will be travelling as a group and taking turns to be on ‘the pointy end’ that is, being the leader and making the navigation decisions! Lots of fun with loads of support to help you along the way.☺

Who is this course for?

Caro will start at the very beginning and not assume any prior knowledge, so don’t feel that you’ll be ‘the dumb one’, ‘or holding everyone up’.

This navigation course is all about the fundamentals and giving you all the tools and theory you need to go out and practice, practice, practice so that you can become more confident in the bush.

So if you’ve never done any map and compass navigation before, or have done some and forgotten it, this course is for you and applicable for:

  • Bushwalking and hiking
  • Trail-running
  • Canyoning
  • Rock Climbing
  • Adventure Racing
  • Rogaining and orienteering
  • Ecological surveys

Cost & inclusions – Intro to Navigation Level 1

The three days of training costs $975 pp (A deposit of $350 pp is required on booking. The balance is due 4 weeks out from the course)

The course price includes:

  • 3 days of teaching and instruction by the dynamic Caro Ryan of Lots of Fresh Air fame!
  • Support and assistance from local bush walking guide Teresa Cause of Horizon Guides based in Boonah.
  • Tea/coffee during the theory (indoor) component of the course. Morning tea Day 1 & 2.
  • Emergency equipment including group first aid kit and PLB.

Course materials:

  • “How to Navigate” by Caro Ryan
  • Full topographic map of location
  • Protective sleeve for maps
  • Silva Ranger Compass
  • Romer
  • Print copies of class exercises
  • ....plus a few surprise extras on the way… think of them as ‘navigation fries with that’.

The tour cost does not include airfares or other associated travel expenses, accommodation, meals, transport, costs of joining the course after it has commenced or leaving it before the end, travel insurance, personal expenses

General notes:

Ivory’s Rock Camping and Events facility: The entire bushland property is extensive and at times 5000 people can be accommodated across all the facilities! Access is through a locked gate only. We will be based in a quiet corner of the property at Jacaranda. The practical components of the course are in bushland adjacent to Jacaranda.

Jacaranda Conference Room is the venue at Ivory’s Rock where we will be based for the course. It is a large comfortable space with verandas on three sides. There is a kitchen area with fridge and sink for use by participants and loos.

Accommodation is not included for this course. The camping facilities at Ivory’s Rock are excellent and may booked directly. The best option for staying onsite is the Sandy Creek Campground (private bathroom for each booking, group camp kitchen with fridge, BBQ, wash up area) Bunkhouse style accommodation can also be reserved. https://www.ivorysrock.org.au/ Ph 07 3077 9668

The town of Boonah has a good selection of accommodation options including two motels as well as great selection of cafes and pubs for meals. The IGA supermarket is well-provisioned and open 7 days. The area has a range of BNBs in rural and village locations. It’s approximately a 25minute drive to Ivory’s Rock from town. Ipswich is about the same distance away to the north with all the usual options and facilities of a small city.

Packing List A detailed packing list will be provided prior with final details for the program.

Meals are not provided (apart from morning teas). You will need to bring packed lunches and snacks each day.

Mobile Phone Coverage is limited on site. WIFI will be available at Jacaranda and at the Green and Yellow campgrounds for campers.

 

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Art @ Worendo in the Lost World Valley 2024

The Lost World Valley truly is a land of changing moods and dramatic vistas. Rainbows arc over the mountains as if painted on the scenery! Those that live and work here are treated to this glorious scene every day ... now you too can stay a while and turn your whole attention to this special place.

JUST TWO PLACES LEFT- CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK!


'Art at Worendo' returns for 2024 ... once again on Mother's Day weekend. What a perfect way to treat your mum - or yourself - to a weekend of peaceful creativity.

A day of art is lovely but sometimes it's important to take a proper break and really observe our gorgeous landscapes - one of the best ways to do this is to actually stop. And breathe. And find your creative flow ... Even if you are a true beginner, or you tell yourself you don't have an artistic bone in your body ... don't worry ... artist and teacher Glynn Kelly is here to guide you to create something lovely ?

Our program of immersion in landscape and art in the heartland of the Lost World valley is a collaborative event between artist and teacher Glynn Kelly and Horizon Guides; staying at the award winning Worendo Cottages. Glynn will guide you in learning the basics of drawing, ink and water colour technique. For beginners, or those wishing to develop their practice: you will be so thrilled with the images you create. All meals are provided - from afternoon tea on arrival to lunch on Sunday. Take some time out to breath in the gloriously wild Scenic Rim!

Don't miss out on this annual event... click This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to reserve your place.

We meet at Worendo at 2pm on Friday 10 May  and the program ends at 3pm on Sunday 12 May 2024

Price: $1,375 pp twin share. Shared bathrooms.
A $500 deposit required to confirm your place.
Numbers are limited to 10 participants, with a minimum of 6.
Reservation form and packing list will be emailed on enquiry.
All meals are included from afternoon tea on Friday to lunch on Sunday (any dietary restrictions must be advised on booking)
Art lessons and materials included. (you are welcome to bring your own if you wish)
Access to scenic spots near to Worendo (to draw and paint) are part of the weekend program. Where we go depends on weather and group interest.
Expect there to be some easy bush walking with sketchbook in hand.
Transport is not provided - allow time to enjoy this scenic trip to Worendo at your leisure!

About Glynn: training in water colour painting as part of the Architecture course at UNSW, led to a lifetime of sketching and painting and to teaching art at high school level. Glynn has a particular love of Plein Air painting which combines his passion for the Australian landscape and art. To see some of his Plein Air work check Glynn's Instagram account @glynn7115  In 2021 Glynn won the Sunshine Coast Plein Air Art prize.

We are proud to offer this program in our glorious Scenic Rim region ~ named by Lonely Planet as among the World's Top 10  places to visit in 2022!

Please join us for this very special event. If you have any questions or concerns just give me a call 0417 760 966

Yours in creativity!


Teresa and Glynn

 


ABOUT OUR WALKS Our eco-interpreted bushwalks are open to anyone with an urge to get out and experience the magnificent Scenic Rim region – and beyond.

This is a guided group trek and natural history interpretation is an integral part of the guided experience. You are expected to stay with the group. These are NOT fast-paced races to a destination!    No drones please. 

Our aim is to get out and explore the many facets of our amazing region, note the changes and develop a deeper understanding of the natural richness on our doorstep and, of course, become walking fit with a wonderful group of like-minded bushwalkers.

The nature of the Scenic Rim terrain means that there are few ‘easy’ walks on graded trails. The majority of routes feature uneven ground and ascents and descents, often with rocky sections. The gradients are sometimes very steep. We always allow plenty of time to complete walks so that there is not the necessity to speed through walks or to feel you are not keeping up.

Come - walk and create with Horizon Guides this season! 

 

 

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Contact info

7 Church St, Boonah QLD 4310

Phone +61 07 54634 114
Mobile +61 0417 760 966

walks@horizonguides.com.au

Facebookfacebook.com/HorizonGuides