Maleny Botanic Gardens
Have an up-close experience with macaws and Australian parrots in this aviary and garden surrounded by rainforest, which overlooks the Glass House Mountains.
Ramble through the rainforest and follow paths between colourful flowering beds, waterfalls and beautiful mountain scenery at the Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World. Interact with a diverse array of curious birds and fluffy farm animals at the aviary and miniature animal enclosure.
Spend an hour or two exploring over 6 kilometres (4 miles) of walking paths surrounded by roses, orchids, azaleas, native flowering shrubs and colourful blooms of all sorts reflected in the garden’s ponds. The garden’s perimeter is surrounded by dense mountain rainforest.
The privately owned gardens have been painstakingly and lovingly created on land that was once used to graze cattle. From the lookout, enjoy fantastic views of the Glass House Mountains jutting dramatically out of the farmland, forestry and shrub land of the Sunshine Coast. Peacocks roam the gardens, providing an extra display of colour. Note how the native flowers and dense plantings have created a source of food for many native birds.
Get close to free-flying macaws, rosellas, cockatoos, finches and lovebirds at the interactive Bird World aviary. The birds stop for a rest on just about anything, including visitors’ shoulders and heads, especially those of people with birdseed. Look for shy quails darting in the undergrowth. The huge macaws delight in showing off their clever tricks for an audience.
Bring small children to delight in the animal petting zoo, home to a miniature pony and alpacas, as well as farmyard favourites and native black swans.
Visit one of the garden gazebos to indulge in a Devonshire tea of scones with locally made jam and cream or pack a picnic to enjoy within the gardens.
Maleny Botanic Gardens and Bird World are open 7 days a week. There is an admission fee, which goes towards the care and upkeep required to keep and maintain the birds and gardens. Children under 15 can enter the gardens for free and pay for entry to the aviary.