Rainforest discovery centre - Mary Cairncross scenic reserve

Rainforest plants and birdlife may be seen up close from the all ability ramp which journeys from the cool breezeway between the cafe and discovery centre through the forest to the second level viewing deck. On a clear day this viewing deck will provide visitors with expansive views over the Glasshouse Mountains and Pumicestone Passage. If you are lucky you may even get to see those city high-rise buildings in the Brisbane CBD. Learn some of the Jinibara people’s history of the Glasshouse Mountains from the educational panels.

Once back in the breezeway enter the discovery centre for an enticing world of educational opportunities. This journey will help you discover the sounds and animals of the rainforest after dark in the cool, dark dusk to dawn enclosure or learn more about the four different vegetation communities of the forest by travelling through the hidden forest. Peek behind the camouflaged doors to identify some of the wonderful wildlife of each vegetation community.

Junior scientists can use microscopes and hand lenses to magnify special anatomical features of some of the creepy crawly insects on display between February and April. Peer into one of the glass display cases to see if you can see live examples of the nocturnal creatures of the forest leaf litter. Opening drawers has never been so exciting, you do not know what you will encounter by doing this simple task. Research scientists studying plants and animals in the forest are not forgotten with a microscope available for use in our research lab.

When you require a pause in discovering all the exciting educational features and new interactive technology of the centre just open the back door and escape to the tranquil, cool living rainforest.

Teachers will delight in the opportunities provided through the changing natural history displays and curriculum based educational modules now available. Students and teachers will now enjoy the outdoor classroom located in the rainforest adjacent to the centre.

Bookings for guided tours of the forest may be made through the Mary Cairncross website.

Educational displays within the centre will change on a fortnightly rotation so every time you visit you will enjoy discovering and learning more about the history, geology, plants and animals of the forest. Please check the Mary Cairncross website for additional information on the changing themes and displays for the rainforest discovery centre over the next 12 months.