For unique nature walks just 15 minutes from Ipswich Central, Purga Nature Reserve is a peaceful getaway. It has the largest protected remnant of Swamp Tea Tree in Australia, and there are short, self-guided walks amid the ghostly, ashen trees.

The Swamp Tea-tree is used by Traditional Owners for medicinal purposes. The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties can treat coughs, colds, sore throats, headaches and other ailments. Swamp Tea-Tree are also home to ghost moth larvae (hepialus humuli) also known as witchetty grub or ‘Jebbim’ to Traditional Owners, who used them as a food staple.

The reserve has two Class 2 tracks for easy level walking, including the 350-metre wheelchair-accessible Tea Tree Boardwalk Circuit, raised high enough to keep your feet dry even if the wetlands have had rain. The longer Melaleuca Circuit is a fairly short stroll on flat land, and with the native herbs, wildflowers and ground covers in place, it’s an inviting habitat for birds. Keep your eyes peeled for Eastern Grey kangaroos, koalas and echidnas.

Purga Nature Reserve’s popular frog pond, depending on the time of year and rainfall, is host to the Green Treefrog, Eastern Sedgefrog and Striped Marshfrog, and you can also see willy wagtails, skinks and rarely, red-bellied black snakes. With picnic tables and compost toilets this Reserve offers a great short nature experience.