Sparkes Hill Bushcare Group

Location and History

Flying foxes in morning sunshine

Sparkes Hill is a prominent landmark to the East of Everton Park State High School, and bordered on the south-side by the Brook.  In the past, it has been quarried, used as a dump but more recently hosts a group of large important water reservoirs in amongst its thick cover of tall trees. 

Mixed Eucalyptus cover on slopes

A communication tower pokes its way out near the top where there is also a simple park with some wooden seats. A formed bush path, constructed by volunteer prisoners from Woodford Prison, joins the Matthews Street access to the main walkway entrance from Longland Street. (Refer to UBD Ref. 139 D6.)  

The Sparkes Hill BushCare Group has been active in the reserve for many years undertaking cleanup activities, planting, weed control, nature study and path construction. The Group also works in cooperation with teachers and students of the adjacent Everton Park State High School and Grovely TAFE.

For over nineteen years, Bob Robbie has been a legend as an energetic volunteer with habitat management on this water reserve. His leadership qualities have been exemplary when interacting with other bushcare groups, community organisations, Brisbane City Council and government bodies. He has been friendly and helpful simply as a contact person to give advice and information, especially anything to do with the flora and fauna on this reserve. In May 2011, Bob finally decided it was time to rest so he can enjoy the pleasures of life after Sparkes Hill.

Ecosystems present

Sparkes Hill Reserve contains areas of open forest with a mixed eucalyptus canopy. Native plants dominate the shrub layer and understorey; relatively large areas of kangaroo grass are present. In moister sections of the reserve, and near drainage gullies, weeds are more common. There is always a large colony of flying foxes on the western side that present a wonderful sight from the bottom Greenway path along the Brook.

Contact

For bushcare activities, please contact Habitat Brisbane Officer, Catherine Cleary, on phone (07) 3407 0818 or by .