Site Information: Ewen Maddock Dam is a large area
comprised of many different habitats, mainly dry eucalypt woodland but also
wet sclerophyll, melaleuca forest, swampy reed, a small area of rainforest,
as well as the large water body of the dam itself.
There are about 13kms of walking trails between Maddock Park and the far end
at Gympie Road North, Landsborough. Some of these are shared with cyclists, horse
riders and dogs walked on leads. Sadly there is no path that joins Maddock Wetlands
or that circumnavigates the whole dam.
The habitat produces a good variety of birds and depending on the water level
(if very low or has been drained for repairs) can have waders, crakes and during
drought conditions – Black-tailed Native Hen.
Usual species can include a variety of honeyeaters, Little Grassbird, Great
Crested Grebe, Comb crested Jacana and White-bellied Sea Eagle.
Access is from a few locations.
(a) Sunshine Coast UBD: 96 P11
Directions: The end of Kowald Road (off Tunnel Ridge Road, Landsborough)
gives quick access to most habitats. A telescope is useful for viewing the dam from
the causeway (walk left at the end T-junction of Kowald Road) and also from the power
line by the boom on the dam by walking right instead.
eBird bird list: https://ebird.org/australia/hotspot/L2905101
(b) Sunshine Coast UBD: 97 E3
Directions: Maddock Park off Mooloolah Connection Road has a car park,
toilets, picnic benches and BBQ’s. There are walking tracks leading towards Landsborough from here.
eBird bird list (Maddock Park): https://ebird.org/australia/hotspot/L5048448
eBird bird list (Walking track): https://ebird.org/australia/hotspot/L2558287
(c) Sunshine Coast UBD: 97 B12
Directions: Maddock Wetlands beside Steve Irwin Way
(opposite the Big Kart Track) also has a car park, toilet, picnic benches
and even an early morning coffee van most days! From here there is a mossie
ridden path to the shore of the dam. On the opposite side of the car park is
a trail through woodland, though beware – this is shared with speedy cyclists.
eBird bird list: https://ebird.org/australia/hotspot/L2560583
