History
James Toohey, one of Brisbane's largest landowners in the second half of the 19th Century left a complicated will which resulted in this outstanding bushland being spared from suburban development and retained for residents to enjoy. In 1893 the Mt Gravatt Reserve was a gift to the local residents by the State Government of the day.
An island in suburbia
The forest is indeed an Island in Suburbia, which is the title of a comprehensive book published by Griffith University on the natural and social history of the forest. This an excellent reference for anyone looking for more in-depth information. Island in Suburbia (1987), ed. C.P.Catterall and C.J.Wallace, Institute of Applied Environmental Research, Griffith University, Brisbane.
The total area of bushland, including the Griffith University land and the Mt Gravatt Reserve, is approximately 640ha. Toohey Forest's unique charm derives from the hilly terrain and the rich variety of native flora and fauna. The wildflowers are truly spectacular from July to September. About 140 bird species have been recorded, many of them being winter migrants.
Trail guides
Toohey Forest is a great place for bushwalks. There are several kilometres of tracks to follow and explore. There are several different bushwalks and the trail guides and maps for some of the more popular walks have been prepared and are available from the EcoCentre, BCC libraries and council offices. When you visit the forest to participate in the bushwalks there are a few things you'll need to remember:
- Take something to drink - the only water is at the trail heads or the University campus.
- There are no toilets except those at Nathan and Mt Gravatt campuses
- Enjoy the bush, but do not damage it
- Take your litter home with you
- Keep dogs on a leash
- Bicycles are to remain on designated paths
- Trail bikes are forbidden
- By law plants and animals are not to be removed from the forest
Rangers
The Brisbane City Council has appointed a Natural Area Management Team to maintain the forest areas they control. The Rangers are responsible for community education about the forest and the administration of local laws.