Border Ranges National Park – natural delights right on the doorstep at Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat

Many of the plants at Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat have been untouched by civilization.  This means they have been able to grow and develop in their natural state without any interference from humans. This is an important aspect of conservation, as it allows visiting researchers to SIne Cera to study and learn from these natural ecosystems and the species that inhabit them.

It’s also exciting to hear that scientists have estimated that there are around 660 species of amphibians, reptiles, birds, and plant life in and around Sine Cera. This shows the incredible biodiversity of the area and highlights the importance of preserving it for future generations.

The fact that Sine Cera adjoins the World Heritage Border Ranges National Park is very significant, as it means that it is part of an even larger and more important conservation area that includes the ancient Gondwana forests. These forests are some of the most ancient and significant in the world, and they have survived for millions of years. The fact that these forests have survived since Australia was part of the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana forty million years ago is truly remarkable. It is a testament to their resilience and their importance as a living relic of a time long past. 

The Gondwana forests are an important reminder of the incredible diversity of life that has existed on earth for millions of years.   It is difficult to exaggerate the beauty and significance of these forests. They are home to an incredible array of unique and rare species, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. The forests themselves are also incredibly beautiful, with towering trees, lush undergrowth, and a sense of tranquility that is difficult to find in many other places.

Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat is therefore an incredibly important and special place, with a rich history and a diverse range of flora and fauna that is unparalleled in many other parts of the world. It is vital that we continue to protect and preserve areas like this, so that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate the natural wonders of our planet.

“The most extensive areas of subtropical rainforest in the world, large areas of warm temperate rainforest and nearly all of the Antarctic beech cool temperate rainforest.
Few places on earth contain so many plants and animals which remain relatively unchanged from their ancestors in the fossil record” Department of Environment.

Location and Access: Border Ranges National Park is located approximately 12 km and 12 minutes’ drive away from Sine Cera, 120 km south-west of Brisbane and 20 km west of Murwillumbah. The park is accessible by car via the Summerland Way from Casino or via Kyogle from the Pacific Motorway. 

Walking Tracks: Border Ranges National Park is a beautiful and diverse park that offers a range of walking tracks for visitors to explore. Whether you are looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, there is something for everyone in this stunning natural area.

1. Purling Brook Falls Circuit – 4 km (1.5 hours) – This is a popular walking track that takes you through lush rainforest and past the stunning Purling Brook Falls. The track is relatively easy and suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
2. Booyong Walk – 6 km (2.5 hours) – This is a moderate walk that takes you through subtropical rainforest, past towering fig trees, and along creeks and gullies. There are some steep sections on the track, so it is recommended for more experienced walkers.
3. Antarctic Beech Forest Walk – 1.5 km (30 minutes) – This is a short, easy walk that takes you through a beautiful and rare Antarctic beech forest. The track is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
4. Border Loop Lookout Walk – 800m (20 minutes) – This is a short walk to a lookout that provides panoramic views of the park and the surrounding landscape. The track is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
5. Brindle Creek Loop – 7.5 km (3 hours) – This is a moderately difficult walk that takes you through subtropical rainforest and past waterfalls and creeks. The track includes some steep sections and is recommended for more experienced walkers.

Camping: There are several camping areas located within Border Ranges National Park, including Sheepstation Creek Campground, Forest Tops Campground, and The Brush Box Campground. Each campground has its own facilities and amenities, including toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits.

As previously mentioned, Border Ranges National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, some of which are unique to the park and the surrounding region. 

Here are some examples of the unique flora found in Border Ranges National Park:

1. Antarctic Beech: This is a cool-temperate rainforest tree that is found in only a few areas of New South Wales and Queensland, including Border Ranges National Park.
2. Brush Box: This is a tall tree that is found in subtropical and dry rainforests in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park.
3. Gympie Gympie: This is a large shrub or small tree that is found in rainforests in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park. It is known for its painful sting, which can last for several months.
4. Wonga Vine: This is a rare, large-leaved vine that is found in subtropical and dry rainforests in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park.
   

Unique Fauna:

1. Albert’s Lyrebird: This is a bird species that is endemic to the border region between New South Wales and Queensland, including Border Ranges National Park. It is known for its incredible ability to mimic sounds and is considered one of the world’s best mimics.
2. Giant Barred Frog: This is a large frog species that is found in subtropical and dry rainforests in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park. It is known for its distinctive call and is listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act.
3. Sooty Owl: This is a large owl species that is found in subtropical and dry rainforests in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park. It is a nocturnal species and is known for its deep, booming call.
4. Brush-tailed Phascogale: This is a small marsupial that is found in eastern Australia, including Border Ranges National Park. It is a tree-dwelling species and is known for its distinctive brush-like tail.
   
   

Activities for everyone: Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat offers a base for a range of activities to cater to different interests and preferences. It’s important to provide opportunities for people to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the natural world, whether that be through hiking, biking, or simply walking and exploring.

The idea of trekking to various waterholes and purifying oneself in the untouched waters of the rainforest is a wonderful and immersive experience. The rainforest environment is known for its restorative and rejuvenating qualities, and the act of purifying oneself in the waters of the rainforest is a powerful and meaningful way to connect with nature and find inner peace.

For those who are more adventurous, biking through the well-maintained tracks in the mountainous regions near Kyogle is a great option. This allows people to explore the natural beauty of the area in a more active and exhilarating way, while still being mindful and respectful of the environment.

And for those who prefer a more leisurely pace, bushwalking and immersing oneself in nature is always a wonderful option. This allows people to slow down, take in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, and truly connect with the natural world in a meaningful way.

Dharma Care’s Sine Cera Rainforest Retreat offers a venue with a range of nearby activities that cater to different interests and preferences, allowing people to connect with nature and find the kind of experience that suits them best.