Excursion Lake Manchester Reserve – 1 July 2023

Excursion Saturday
01/07/2023
Meet at 8 am

Lake Manchester Reserve

(Day Excursion)

LEADERS: Cathie Duffy and Judy Haines

Lake Manchester was formed by damming Cabbage Tree Creek above its confluence with Brisbane River in 1916 and was originally an emergency water supply to Brisbane. It is now connected to the SEQLD Water Grid.

Although swimming is not allowed, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and horse riding are. The lake is surrounded by 74 square kilometres of catchment including part of the western slopes of D’Aguilar National Park, hectares of schlerophyll woodland and small areas of dry rainforest along creek lines.

At the time of the recce the lake was 97% full which made wonderful views from the 17 km circumnavigation track, however we will cover between 4km and 6km during this excursion. There are a couple of hills on the gravel fire trail, so you might like to take a walking pole, though we managed without these during the recent recce.

Birds that might be encountered include Australasian Grebe, Jacanas, Wood Ducks as well as forest birds, and koalas are fairly commonly seen. A pair of Little Lorikeets were photographed during the recce. The day-use area where we will gather has mature Gum-topped Box Eucalyptus moluccana and Forest Red Gum Eucalyptus teretacornis, both of which appear to be coming into flower which should attract large numbers of Honeyeaters, Friarbirds and Lorikeets. The vulnerable Native Olive, Notelea lloydii, is said to occur also around the lake. A small native garden has been cultivated in the day use area.

REGISTRATION: By email to excursion@qnc.org.au (no “s” in the word excursion) with the words Lake Manchester in the subject line. Please include name and contact details of all attendees. Guests are welcome.

DIRECTIONS: Lake Manchester is approximately 30 km from the CBD. Follow Milton Rd to the Western Freeway, OR Coronation Drive to Toowong, then head to Pullenvale on Moggill Rd. Turn right onto Mt Crosby Rd. At the T-Junction turn right at the sign that says Lake Manchester 11 km. On Lake Manchester Rd continue past a couple of trail heads to the dam site day use area (-27.4960, 152.7569).

AMENITIES: Toilets, a large shelter shed, a BBQ, non-potable tank water, so bring own drinking water. A large mown grassy area makes for a pleasant base if people just want to picnic and explore down to the creek.

BRING: Morning tea and lunch, hat, sunscreen and probably insect repellent, though the day should be cool. Layered clothing in case of glorious sun. Binoculars and camera. Possibly a walking pole. No pets.