There is nothing more pleasant than going for a drive on the weekend to find places or interest or places you have not been before.
Kholo Botanic Gardens on the outskirts of
Ipswich is one such place.
Kholo Botanic Gardens (Author's photo)
Ipswich is only forty-four kilometers from Brisbane and as the gardens can be located another seven kilometers on from the Ipswich Central District, it is a pleasant drive to
Pine Mountain where giant
Kauri Trees and
Hoop Pines can be found. These trees were planted by the early settlers and now provide lavish undergrowth to a number of rare birds and plants. The site is also sacred for the indigenous
Jagera, Yugger and Ugarapul People.
Kholo Botanic Gardens (Author's photo)
Covering approximately forty hectares, there are plenty of walking trails meandering past vibrant gardens, Kholo's lily pond, bamboo and palm trees giving the visitor a peaceful feeling in the tranquil surroundings. If you are energetic you may like to take the slightly steep 800-metre Coal Creek Walk or, if like me, you may prefer the 400-metre subtropical trek through Tree Fern Lane's rainforest canopy. The
Coal Creek Walk is named as a remembrance of coal being found there in 1825. As I wandered around the track, blue tongue lizards moved through the bushes beside me, quite unperturbed by their visitor.
Kholo Botanic Gardens (Author's photo)
An old church, which was relocated from Redbank in 1990, is conveniently positioned close to a restored Queenslander, which makes a perfect venue for weddings and special functions. A historic well left over from an 1878 water pump station can also be found in the gardens. If you are wanting to find out more information on the cost to hire either of these buildings, you can contact the Council on 1300 477 942.
Kholo Botanic Gardens Church (Author's photo)
Run by the
Ipswich City Council, the grounds provide ample room for families to throw a frisbee or kick a ball. Gazebos and shelters supply facilities for barbeques, picnics or simply bring a blanket to throw on the ground and read a book. There are plenty of benches throughout the park along with drinking water fountains and public toilets. Car parking is free and there is also plenty of room for coaches.
Kholo Botanic Gardens - Walks and Adventures Await (Author's photo)
Kholo Botanic Gardens are open seven days a week from 6.00am to 6.00pm. For a great day out with family and friends, this is the place to visit.
