Dubbo has many great spots to experience the local natural history. Many are visited on the monthly field trips.  A few of our favourite locations are described below:

Goonoo Forest

Formerly a State Forest, Goonoo is currently a State Conservation Area.  It lies approximately 40km north east of Dubbo, with adjoining areas including the Coolbaggie Nature Reserve.

The forest is known for it's expansive Ironbark/Box/Gum woodlands, with areas of Green Mallee and Melaleuca scrub. It contains many significant species of birds, including Malleefowl, Regent Honeyeaters, Turquoise Parrots, Glossy Black Cockatoos, Barking Owls and Diamond FIretails. 

Gibraltar Rock

Gibraltar Rock lies about 10km south of the city.  The southern side of the rock was declared a Public Recreation Reserve in 1906. The peak is a trig reserve with the land around the base is under a grazing lease.  Dubbo City Council manages the reserve so you should contact the Council on 6801 4000 to obtain the appropriate telephone numbers for contact to access the site. You are reminded that all gates must be kept locked and no animal should be disturbed or pestered and keep on the road.

From the trig station on its peak, Gibraltar Rock provides a full 360-degree view of the district. The Rock is a beautiful volcanic formation, an easy climb, and is particularly interesting after rain, when the top is covered with vegetation and small rock pools. See here - a report on the Flora of Gibraltar Rock, plus lists of fauna: Gibraltar Rock Fauna.pdf  and Flora:  Gibraltar Rock Flora.pdf

Geurie Nature Reserve and Cemetery

The Geurie Nature Reserve is managed by Wellington Shire Council.  It represents an excellent spot to experience grassy box woodland due it's relatively intact grassy understorey. Many great birds can be observed here, including Black-chinned Honeyeaters, Square-tailed Kites, Diamond Firetails and Little Lorikeets.  Similarly, the cemetery is excellent for both flora and fauna, with many orchids appearing in the spring.

Dubbo Western Plains Zoo

While being famous for the captive animals, the Zoo also contains a large area of fenced woodlands and constructed wetlands that are fox and cat-free.  Keep an eye out for Magpie Geese, Crakes, Grey Crowned Babblers, Little Lorikeets and a range of woodland birds species.

Old Harbour Lagoon

Old Harbour Lagoon lies east of Balladoran/Eumungerie, approximately 40km north of Dubbo.  It represents a 'perched lake' wetland and is filled from local rainfall only.  Half of the lagoon is dedicated as a Wildlife Refuge, with lakebed cropping and grazing in the other half.  Many species of frogs and birds occupy the lagoon when it is full.  Access is strictly with landholder permission only.

Mugga Hill

The Mugga Hill Track is located 4 km north east of Dubbo along the Dunedoo Road. The main trackhead may be reached by driving over Mugga Hill and turning right at the Walking Track sign. These access roads lead to a parking area in the south east corner of the Reserve’s treed area. Note there is no fresh water along the track.

Mugga Hill was declared a Crown Reserve for the Preservation of Flora and Fauna in the 1980s. The reserve is dominated by Mugga ironbarks (Eucalyptus sideroxylon), inland grey box (E. woollsiana), tumbledown red gums (E. dealbata) and cypress pines (Callitris endicheri, Callitris glauca). The ironbarks are distinguished by dark, very rough bark, while the grey box and gums have fibrous grey and smooth grey, white or cream bark respectively. Numerous species of woodland birds inhabit the Mugga Hill area.

Natural History of the Dubbo Area