This week we are going to Maleny and hiking around two very unique areas in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. 

We visit a large protected rainforest area which is full of wildlife (including snakes) and some endangered species as well as the cute little pademelons you can easily see jumping around the rainforest undergrowth. Oh pademelons are little wallabies by the way.

Next we go walking around a 110 acre tropical paradise garden and bird sanctuary.  This area used to be a cattle farm and is now completely transformed to be one of, if not the most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast. This is the where you can see the best views of the iconic Glass House Mountains (which are actually 13 unusually shaped ancient volcanic vents that dominate the landscape)

There are tropical gardens, ponds and lakes, waterfalls, oriental gardens, rotundas dotted everywhere, plus so much more.  It is truly beautiful.  The bird sanctuary was started to house rescue birds and there are four walk-through aviaries where you can have an interactive experience with the birds from all over the world. There is even one parrot that sings opera and Old Macdonald had a farm.

Stay listening to the end though, where I literally scream and escape over the fence from the miniature animals in the farm enclosure and then while I have a chat   -  up close and personal with a red-tailed black cockatoo. Advanced warning though– he is very vocal.

We tell you about Maleny, the pretty little town that you can visit just a few kilometres away from these stunning places and the best accommodation and venues to eat while you are visiting.

This episode is so full of nature, beauty and wildlife with the background chorus from the rainforest, birds and insects.

SHOW NOTES AND PICTURES BELOW

Maleny is a small, rural town in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. It is renowned for its lush rolling hills. Maleny attracts a diverse array of artists, including sculptors, painters, craftspeople, and potters, who contribute their exceptional works to the local galleries. These artistic offerings are complemented by a delightful array of cafes, street food, and inviting restaurants. Maleny has become a popular destination for both holidaymakers and day trippers, thanks to its refreshing cool air and panoramic views.

Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve is the gem of the hinterland. It is located only minutes from Maleny. It is fabulous for any age and easy to navigate the 2km of walking tracks.

The reserve covers 55 acres of subtropical rainforest and is full of wildlife, with over 139 species of birds, 11 different marsupials species including the red legged pademelon, three bat species 20 lizard species, 14 snake species, frogs and spiders.

The facilities include the Rainforest Discovery Centre, Cafe, BBQ and picnic area, easy to navigate walking trails, tree-top glider walk, amenities block and large playground area. Entry is free, but a gold coin donation is appreciated. The discovery centre is run by volunteers and the cafe “Mountain View” has fabulous views over the Glass House Mountains. You can find all the information about the Discovery Centre and reserve here: Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve information

Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World is one of the most beautiful places on the Sunshine Coast.

It was an old 110 acre, steep, challenging terrain cattle farm that has been transformed since 2005 into a stunning garden oasis.

The old cattle farm has been replaced by ponds, lakes, waterfalls and gardens of all types. There are tropical gardens, rose gardens, cactus areas, an oriental garden, a fairy garden plus so much more. There are tracks that wind around these gardens that you can walk around, or if you prefer, you can hire a buggy to see the beautiful garden area.

One of the spectacular views at the Maleny Botanic Gardens is of The Glass House Mountains. There are many view points dotted around the parklands. The Glass House Mountains are in fact not mountains, but a series of 13 craggy peaks that were once ancient volcanic vents.

There are many perfect picnic spots around the gardens. You can bring your own, or order one from the cafe and reception area. The gardens are also popular as a wedding venue, and you can see why.

As you wander around you can also visit the Farm Friends enclosure with its friendly sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, donkeys and other furry farm animals. This area is especially fun for the kids.

Of course, one of the highlights is the massive bird aviery that has guided walk through tours every day. You might just find yourself with a tropical parrot, or native cockatoo landing on your shoulder.

You can find all the information, plus some great pictures and videos on their website here: Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World

We absolutely love visiting Maleny and especially Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and the Maleny Botanic Gardens. You could easily spend hours at either of these places, or visit both on the same day as they are only a few kilometres apart. Your only problem will be deciding on which has the best views!!

If you would like to hear us as we explore the botanic gardens with all the birds and insects supplying the background noise, or almost get eaten by a goat, plus more entertaining stories with stacks of info then click one of the players above.

If you would like to see the other episodes in our Aussie Summer Series, then click the button below.