The reserve contains one of the last remaining stands of subtropical lowland rainforest in Australia.
It is a critical maternity site for the grey-headed flying fox, a species listed as vulnerable to extinction.
The forest canopy is dominated by giant Moreton Bay figs, some of which are centuries old.
Local community volunteers played a pivotal role in the 1980s by clearing invasive weeds to save the remnant forest.
The boardwalk is designed to protect the buttress roots of the ancient figs, which are susceptible to damage from soil compaction.
Wingham Brush Nature Reserve is a rare remnant of subtropical lowland rainforest situated on the floodplain of the Manning River in New South Wales. The reserve is world-renowned for its significant colony of endangered grey-headed flying foxes, which are highly visible in the canopy. An elevated boardwalk system allows visitors to traverse the forest floor while protecting the sensitive root systems of ancient Moreton Bay fig trees. These massive trees provide the primary structure for the canopy and sustain a unique micro-ecosystem. The reserve is recognized as a key site for conservation, having undergone extensive restoration to remove exotic weeds and restore native biodiversity. It functions as a vital refuge for several threatened plant and animal species within a heavily cleared agricultural landscape.
The raised boardwalk sections beneath the massive buttress roots of the giant Moreton Bay figs.
Wear long sleeves and pants, and consider insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes.
Walk quietly and avoid making sudden loud noises to prevent disturbing the colony of flying foxes.
Use the elevated boardwalk at all times to protect the fragile rainforest floor.
Do not wander off the marked boardwalk, as the ground is uneven and contains protected root systems.
Do not touch, feed, or approach the flying foxes; keep voices low to minimize stress to the wildlife.
