The Bowen Bridge Heritage Trail
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A heritage trail tucked away behind Downey Park is a little treasure trail of information, tranquillity and history. I came across it almost by accident as I was exploring every little pathway over the long months of lockdown.
It is opposite Downey Park and boasts a little entrance with a big arch.
The Heritage Trail was set up in 2001 by the Men of Trees and was opened by Premier Peter Beattie. The Men of Trees was a very interesting group which had been set up by Richard St Barbe Baker, a forester from Great Britain, who was concerned that in Kenya the slash and burn tactics used by Kikuyu farmers meant the land was depleted of trees and vegetation. His lifelong work was to ensure that large areas of damaged land were replanted with trees to create a sustainable environment. He did this in 1922 and yet somehow we still haven't learnt the lessons. Greta tells us we might have left it too late - I hope not.
This is a short heritage track but it is a pleasant walk, firstly, because it's by the river, specifically Breakfast Creek, and there is an abundance of birds and wildlife to be heard if not seen there. Secondly, brass plates are dotted along the way, describing the history of the place. Telling us this was Turrbal land.
In 1862, Bowen Bridge linked this area with Brisbane.
Now, of course, we can enjoy the magnificent trees that have grown over the years and act as a homeland for the birds and wildlife.
Some are amusing as they are useful.
There are also Aboriginal Dream Creatures dotted about, which add another dimension of fun and history to the trail.
The path twists and turns and eventually, there are lovely views of Enoggera Creek and some of the mangroves before you find yourself back on the main path next to the park. It's not very long, barely half a kilometre, but packed with information, history and some lovely corners. Go along and enjoy it.
#walks
#outdoor
#bowen_hills
#aboriginal
%wnbrisbane
165464 - 2023-06-15 01:31:55