Discover the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia
- Deb Carr
- Jun 27
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 2
A Journey Through Ancient World Heritage Wilderness
A Living Link to the Past
Australia was once almost entirely covered in lush rainforest, stretching across the continent during the age of the supercontinent Gondwana—a time when Australia, Antarctica, Africa, and South America were one landmass. Today, remnants of these primeval forests survive in a network of protected areas collectively known as the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1986 (originally listed as the ‘Central Eastern Rainforest Reserves’).
These rainforests span over 50 reserves across Queensland and New South Wales, preserving a unique record of evolutionary history and offering a glimpse into what Australia looked like over 180 million years ago.
Biodiversity Under Threat
The Gondwana Rainforests are some of the most biologically diverse ecosystems in the country, home to an extraordinary variety of flora and fauna. There are more than 200 rare or threatened plant and animal species within these reserves, some found nowhere else on Earth.
Among the ancient species thriving here are:
The Antarctic beech (Nothofagus moorei), a relic from the Ice Age.
Unique tree ferns, orchids, and glow-in-the-dark fungi.
Endangered animals such as the Hastings River mouse, Albert’s lyrebird, and spotted-tailed quoll.
Preserving these habitats is critical—not just for biodiversity, but for ecological stability, carbon capture, and the health of connected river systems.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
For tens of thousands of years, Aboriginal peoples have walked these rainforests, holding a deep spiritual connection to the land. Each rainforest is part of a larger songline, embedded with ancestral stories, ceremonial places, and knowledge systems that continue to this day.
The rainforests are part of Country—a concept that blends land, water, sky, people, and culture. Walking through these forests is, in many ways, a walk through living cultural heritage, still respected and honoured by local Indigenous communities.
Key Gondwana Rainforests to Explore
Each rainforest reserve has its own unique personality, with dramatic escarpments, waterfalls, ancient trees, and walking trails that range from gentle boardwalks to challenging hikes. Here’s an overview of the major regions:
Main Range National Park (QLD/NSW Border)
A mountainous landscape with rich rainforest, rugged ridgelines and high-altitude lookouts. Popular walking tracks include the Queen Mary Falls circuit and the Mount Mitchell summit trail.
Tweed Caldera (NSW)
Formed by the erosion of the ancient Tweed Volcano, this region is dominated by the iconic Mount Warning/Wollumbin. The area is one of the largest erosion calderas in the world and offers dramatic views and deep cultural significance.
Focal Peak (NSW)
Another volcanic remnant, Focal Peak’s lush rainforests and waterfalls are interspersed with rare volcanic landforms and endangered species like the Richmond birdwing butterfly.
Iluka Nature Reserve (NSW North Coast)
A small but pristine littoral rainforest—rare and ecologically significant. This coastal rainforest is home to flying fox colonies, shorebirds, and one of the best examples of intact seaside rainforest in Australia.
Following a leisurely walk, you'll reach Iluka Bluff Lookout, offering panoramic views and an excellent location for picnicking and whale watching during the winter. In the warmer months, consider swimming or snorkeling at the beach before returning to Iluka.
Gibraltar Range National Park (NSW Northern Tablelands)
This region boasts granite outcrops, cool temperate rainforest, and dramatic waterfalls like Duffer Falls. It’s particularly known for its spring wildflower displays and endangered flora.
Dorrigo National Park & New England Region (NSW)
Famous for its Skywalk Lookout, Dorrigo National Park offers sweeping views and rich subtropical rainforest walks, including Crystal Shower Falls. The wider New England region holds alpine and cool-climate forests.
Walking within the rainforest is a haven for nature lovers. You will discover magical waterfalls, birds and other wildlife. I had a near-miss with a Red Belly Black snake so keep an eye out when hiking.
Hastings-Macleay (Mid North Coast NSW)
A lush riverine rainforest system where ancient species and high rainfall meet. Trails through Willi Willi National Park and Oxley Wild Rivers provide a true wilderness experience.
Barrington Tops National Park (NSW)
A blend of cool temperate rainforest, snow gum forests, and subalpine swamps. This World Heritage site is one of the few places in Australia where you can find subalpine plants and Antarctic beech side by side.
Formed from ancient volcanic activity, the Barrington Tops park ascends from near sea level to over 1500 metres, safeguarding one of mainland Australia's largest temperate rainforests, along with numerous diverse habitats and a wide variety of birds and animals.
The park is a haven for bushwalkers, offering an excellent network of walking tracks ranging from short, easy walks to more challenging overnight hikes, with ample locations for bush camping at night.
Why the Gondwana Rainforests Matter
These landscapes aren’t just scenic destinations—they are time capsules of Earth’s evolutionary story, ecological lifelines, and sacred cultural places. Whether you're hiking through misty fern gullies or listening to lyrebirds mimic the forest sounds, you're standing in the heart of something truly ancient and profound.
As we continue to face environmental and climate challenges, protecting and celebrating the Gondwana Rainforests has never been more important.
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