MAGICAL fireflies flash and float by, the undergrowth is full of fairy lights and a forest waterfall thunders in a starlit cavern – it sounds like something from a story book but this is all part of a new tour being offered at Queen Mary Falls.
Cambanoora Co is offering Twilight Walks in the Queen Mary Falls section of Main Range National Park during the firefly season when the fireflies are on their hunt to attract a mate.
“It is as enchanting as it sounds”, Cambanoora Co’s Louise Brosnan said.
“Each evening we see the first flash of a firefly it is thrilling; standing at the base of the falls watching the first stars as the fireflies lazily float by is a magical experience.”
“The best time to see the firefly display is 30 mins after sunset – so we time our walk to enjoy last light at the lookout before continuing down to the base of the waterfall as night falls”, Ms Brosnan said.
“Firefly” is a very poetic name but these insects are not really flies, but small beetles about 8mm long. Their flashing display is to attract the attention of a mate during the six week breeding season.
The fireflies began their show in late October and are expected to continue until mid-December.
“Many visitors do not realise Queen Mary Falls is also home to a small colony of Queensland Glow-worm, ArachnocampaFlava, in the cool forest areas at the base of the falls,” Ms Brosnan said. “They are visible all year round.”
The one and a quarter hour walking tour is preceded by a briefing about the fireflies and glow-worms and sausage sizzle on the deck at the Queen Mary Falls café.
The Queen Mary Falls Twilight Walk is held during November and December, places are limited and bookings are essential. Call them on 07 4664 1655 to book, for more information, or visit www.cambanoora.com.au
