Activities
Natural and created habitats surround the community facilities and are a peaceful sanctuary where visitors may enjoy the abundant wildlife. Facilities include gas barbeques, and tables and seating. There is ample off-road parking.
Boardwalks
These lead visitors to and through terrestrial habitats and
those of the littoral (intertidal) zone, such as
Mudflats
Depending on the height of tidal waters, a variety of small marine creatures, waders and seabirds may be seen and heard. The animals that may be seen here vary with the seas.
Mangroves
This magical ecosystem of shallow intertidal environments, protected from strong wave action, is home to many species found only in such places. At least three species of mangrove occur here.
Open Eucalypt Forest
The dominant trees above the tidal zone are Queensland Blue Gums and Grey Ironbarks – major Koala food species. Look out for the Koala that sometimes visits.
Saltmarsh Flats
This habitat of specialised plants ranges from areas covered by the highest high tides to higher zones. Increased salt concentrations in the soil favour certain terrestrial groundcovers, shrubs and trees
Yali Moyum
Along the boardwalks, the unique Yali Moyum art pieces interpret the natural environment from the local Aboriginal point of view. These outstanding creations are the work of Aboriginal artist, the late Ron Hurley, whose art is displayed in major galleries in Australia and overseas. Obtain a copy of the Yali Moyum (Tell the Message) brochure from the volunteers of Osprey House to assist in the understanding and appreciation of the messages.
Bird Hide
Birdwatchers may view the waders from within the bird hide. Illustrations within the hide help with the identification of the species most likely to be seen here.
Amphitheatre
Groups of up to 25 people can gather here for informal talks and presentations. From this peaceful vantage point, much of the nearby riverscape can be seen, including the northern part of Tinchi Tamba Wetlands.
Bird Watching
A variety of local and migratory waders, sea birds, and bush birds can be heard, seen and studied at Osprey House. The bird hide, accessible via the boardwalk, allows close, sheltered and quiet observation of many birds, especially with a rising tide.
The following table lists native migratory wading birds that visit mudflats, salt marshes, lake margins and wetlands in the vicinity of Osprey House, between the months of August and May. Some are commonly seen here. Others are more rarely observed.
All Australian migratory wading birds are protected by international agreements: the China Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (CAMBA), Japan Australia Migratory Birds Agreement (JAMBA) and the Convention on Wetlands, signed in Ramsar, Iran.
Most migratory wading birds breed in overseas countries, usually in the Northern Hemisphere, during our winter.
Osprey Pole
A specially built raptor pole and nesting platform has been erected at Osprey House to provide a safe nesting site for raptors of the Pine Rivers’ estuary.
Two cameras installed above the platform capture nesting and perching behaviour. Live video footage can be viewed on a monitors located in Osprey House.