John Ward Walk - a beautiful spot to walk or ride

By Staff Writer Mozza

Knowing the ins and outs of Bribie Island takes a little while and quite often you find yourself driving past areas worth a look that perhaps you didn’t even know were there. John Ward Walk is such a spot and comprises three small lakes and walking or riding paths through leafy areas, a quiet spot for relaxing or exercising.

Located in the Bellara Bibimulya Wetlands, it was originally saltwater marsh with mangroves which the council developed into three lakes to improve drainage, local water quality and control catchment flows.

The area was named after John Ward, a notable volunteer with many local environmental groups on Bribie Island and the Sunshine Coast. It contains many bird species which can be seen on your walk as well as many plant varieties.

To access the area by foot, walk through the car park between Ali King’s Office on Benabrow Avenue and the medical centre and cross Melrose Avenue. This is one of four entrances to the area off Melrose or Bibimulya Streets, Bellara.

So if Welsby Parade is being hit with a blast of winter south-westerlies, a change of venue to John Ward Walk for your daily exercise might be just the thing this winter.