Iona Reserve is a 1.3 hectare Pine tree covered reserve along a natural drainage line in the heart of Park Orchards. A meandering informal path winds through pine trees and creates a pleasant, relaxing space for participating in informal recreation opportunities. On entering, it seems like you are entering a black forest.
The entrance. It does look like a black forest beyond.
It is a remnant pine plantation with numerous specimens still growing tall.
Lots of new plantings contrasting with the old.
It is in a small valley with a tiny waterway trickling along its lowest point.
The central low-point of the reserve.
Future tall timber.
The bearded collie and owner heading home.
As I arrived at the reserve, I met a gentleman leaving with his unusual looking dog. He explained that it was a bearded collie.
Another dog owner was encountered with her tiny dachshund puppy. How small people look walking through the pines.
Dog walker dwarfed by the tall pines.
The reserve is very well cared for and numerous new plantings were evident, even more pine trees.
Future tall pine.
One newly planted tree still had its nursery tag attached, which announced it was a Norway spruce.
The newly planted Norway spruce.
Not native, but colourful.
Native grasses become very noticeable when wildflowers are not in flower and add to the flora of the area. It was nice to see fallen trees left to supply a home to small critters.
Could be home for some.
Sections of the area reminded me of a rain forest, without the dampness associated with them.
This section reminded me of a rain forest.
Iona Reserve is a dog off-leash area and two turned up, but had forgotten to bring their owners.
Exploring without the restraints of an owner.
On a dark and foggy morning, it would be an eerie feeling walking through the reserve. The local young lady with her dachshund puppy remarked that a few years ago scenes for a movie were filmed in the reserve complete with some imitation fog.
The only birds seen or heard were several magpies foraging on the ground.
fossicking magpie.
You won't find this one without your Melways or one of those dashboard thingos. Dirlton Reserve is another pine tree-based reserve only about 500 metres away and combining the two will satisfy you pining for tall trees.
