Kumbartcho Sanctuary in Eaton’s Hill is a fauna and flora reserve offering environmental education, recreation facilities and native plant conservation, managed by City of Moreton Bay with support from volunteers.
The site includes walking tracks, a public park, a barbecue area, a playground, and a native plant nursery, making it a popular family destination while also supporting conservation and education programs through its Environmental Education and Activity Centre.
City of Moreton Bay Mayor Peter Flannery said Kumbartcho offered a safe place for plants and native animals along the rainforest corridor of the South Pine River.
“It is also home to the Moreton Bay community nursery, growing local native plants from seeds collected locally to encourage the community to plant species local to the area, that in turn supports local wildlife,” he said.
“You’ll always spot wetland animals like ducks or turtles, cheeky kookaburras and brush turkeys. We’re a bird lover’s dream with lots of local species. Even the powerful owl is a regular visitor. Along the river, especially in the cooler months, you might even spot local platypus.”
What to See and Do at Kumbartcho Sanctuary
City of Moreton Bay Environment Centre Officer Kim Pantano manages Kumbartcho Sanctuary and has been involved with the site for 31 years.
“Kumbartcho delivers it all, from native plants, river and bush walks, quiet secluded places to enjoy nature, and fun for kids of all ages,” Kim said.
The sanctuary is open daily from dawn to dusk, with the education centre operating from 9am to 2pm, Tuesday to Friday. School and kindergarten groups regularly attend, while community workshops are held throughout the year. Additional features include a fairy village with a mailbox for children.
Kim said visitors should pack lunch or morning tea, wear closed-in shoes and bring a water bottle, sunscreen, mosquito spray and a hat.
“There are maps at the front of the education centre to guide yourself around to the freshwater wetlands, fairy garden or river walk,” she said. “If the education centre is open, drop in to see our displays, many of which are interactive. Remember to look for Myrtle the turtle when you go over the dam wall, and after lunch, enjoy the onsite playground.
“‘I don’t want to go!’ is the most common response from kids when it’s time to leave, and many visitors are regulars as we change the education centre theme every month – so you never know what adventure you will enjoy.”
To stay updated on events, visit Council’s website or find Kumbartcho Sanctuary & Nursery on Facebook.
Kumbartcho Sanctuary
- 15 Bunya Pine Court
- Eatons Hill
- (07) 3264 3953
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