The Nerima Gardens were designed by master landscape architect Shizuyo Noda based on the principles of Edo-period Japanese garden design.
The Ipswich Nature Centre operates as a conservation-focused facility, participating in breeding programs for endangered species.
The park was one of the first municipal parks established in the state of Queensland, predating many other major regional botanical sites.
It contains a collection of significant century-old trees, some of which are protected heritage specimens.
The park's layout integrates a 'Playscape' designed specifically for inclusive play, incorporating sensory elements for children with disabilities.
Queens Park is Ipswich's oldest park, established in 1862, and spans over 26 hectares. It houses the Ipswich Nature Centre, a wildlife sanctuary featuring native Australian species like wombats, wallabies, and bilbies. The grounds include the Nerima Gardens, a traditional Japanese garden designed in collaboration with Ipswich’s sister city, Nerita. The park features a large all-abilities playground known as the Queens Park Playscape. Historical monuments within the park include the Boer War Memorial and the Soldiers Memorial Hall. A designated cafe area operates on-site, serving visitors near the main entry. The terrain features extensive walking paths that transition between manicured lawns and landscaped gardens. The park serves as a hub for both passive recreation and local heritage appreciation. It is maintained by the Ipswich City Council as a public botanical and wildlife space.
The red bridge overlooking the pond inside the Nerima Gardens provides the most iconic visual perspective.
Bring a picnic blanket to utilize the large shaded lawn areas near the Japanese gardens.
Visit the Nature Centre early in the morning, as the native animals are often more active before the midday heat.
Check the official Ipswich City Council website for seasonal community events that occasionally restrict access to specific lawn areas.
Do not attempt to walk through the landscaped garden beds or pick flowers within the Nerima Gardens section.
The Nature Centre is closed on Mondays, except when those Mondays fall on a public holiday.
Respect wildlife enclosure boundaries and refrain from feeding the animals at the Nature Centre.
