October Outing - Mount Basalt, Sunday 3/10/21

Google Earth Image of Mount Basalt

Mount Basalt Reserve is dominated by two main rocky, ridge-shaped peaks and several smaller rocky ridges composed of basalt. These are flanked by scree and associated soils derived from the basalt and the sandstones, shales and coals of the Walloon Coal Measures.

The ridges were formed by intrusion of magma into cracks caused by ruptures in the Earth’s crust. They are part of volcanic events which occurred across south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales between about 17 and 45 million years ago during the Tertiary period. Since that time weathering and erosion at Mount Basalt has developed the present landscape

Meet: Millmerran Lions Park in Edward Street at 9.00am (83-kilometre drive) for a toilet stop as there are no facilities at Mount Basalt or Kooroongarra.

Car Pooling is advised in this longer road trip. Members could make their own arrangements prior to the outing or meet at 8.00 am at the Neil Street Carpark. Please email (toowoombafieldnaturalists@gmail.com)  us if you would like a lift. The club suggests you offer $10.00 to the driver.

Activities: We have an enjoyable country drive (approximately 250 kilometres return trip) to visit Mount Basalt, south of Millmerran, a unique geological area featuring rare volcanic formations and defined walking tracks leading to spectacular views. There are several walking options of variable difficulties here, from 15 minutes to about an hour. We will have morning tea in the picnic area.

Following this, we drive to Kooroongarra, an historical village where buildings from the church, hall, cheese factory, butcher shop and grocery store remain. We will visit the pioneer cemetery and bushland and hope to visit a local property for exploration and lunch (details to be finalized).

Facilities: Picnic tables at Mount Basalt. Toilets at Millmerran

What to Bring: The usual – binocs, cameras, field guides, all food and drinks, chairs, picnic tables, sunscreen, hats, raincoats, wear sturdy shoes, etc., etc., etc.

Please register your interest if you are not a member (email address in right-hand margin) so we can contact you if there's any changes.

Please follow current COVID-19 restrictions 

and stay at home if you have any flu-like symptoms.