A 6,197-hectare rainforest reserve in Queensland’s McPherson Range, protecting subtropical woodland within a UNESCO World Heritage site of global botanical significance.
At a glance
Springbrook National Park encompasses pristine subtropical rainforest approximately 100 kilometres south of Brisbane. The park forms part of the Shield Volcano Group within the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a World Heritage Area recognised for its exceptional biodiversity and evolutionary importance.
History
In December 1994, UNESCO officially extended its World Heritage designation to include Springbrook alongside Main Range, Mount Barney, Lamington National Parks, and Goomburra Forest Reserve, alongside rainforests of northern New South Wales. This recognition acknowledged the region’s botanical and ecological value.
In 2007, the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia were added to the Australian National Heritage List. Four years later, Springbrook was designated a Q150 Icon of Queensland for its role as a significant natural attraction.
What you see
The park protects subtropical rainforest characteristic of the McPherson Range, featuring endemic flora found nowhere else on Earth. The landscape comprises rainforest vegetation typical of Australia’s eastern highlands, shaped by volcanic geology and consistent rainfall.
Cultural significance
Springbrook holds international significance as part of a World Heritage Area. The park is identified as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International due to its role in conserving several threatened bird species. It was the site of the botanical discovery of Eucryphia jinksii, a rare subtropical tree species endemic to the region.
Key facts
- Area: 6,197 hectares (15,310 acres)
- Location: McPherson Range, approximately 100 km south of Brisbane
- Coordinates: -28.14, 153.27
- UNESCO World Heritage status: Part of Gondwana Rainforests of Australia (designated 1994)
- Australian National Heritage List: Added 2007
- Important Bird Area designation: Confirmed by BirdLife International
Practical information & getting there
Springbrook National Park is located in the Gold Coast hinterland, south of Brisbane. The park is accessible from the nearby township of Springbrook. For current opening hours, facilities, and trail conditions, consult the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service.
Sources & resources
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