Kholo Botanic Gardens

As you drive down the windy Riverside Drive and come to the entry of Kholo Botanic Gardens, you will be amazed at what you find beyond the front gates.

For those wanting to get back to nature, to wind down and to let the busyness of life go, this is truly the perfect place to reclaim a sense of calm amongst the garden’s beautiful flora and fauna.

Located on the banks of the Brisbane River, Kholo Botanic Gardens is a historically significant site, abundant with gardens, large open green spaces, a calming lily pond and a number of meandering walks through bushland and subtropical settings, you won’t realise you’re only 12 minutes out of the city of Ipswich.

It was here at Kholo Botanic Gardens that the earliest recordings of coal were made by a Mr. Lockyer in 1825. In 1878, the site of the gardens was actually selected as the location of a water pumping station to supply clean water to Ipswich and although the station ceased operations in 1922 you can still see the historic well on one of the walks at the park. 

Another significant historical feature at the park is the former Redbank Uniting Church; opened in 1904 it was relocated to Kholo Botanic Gardens in 1990. The wooden building appears to be captured in time and is a perfect place to hold a Wedding Ceremony. Across from the church, there is a beautifully restored Old Queenslander which acts as a function centre and is perfect for event celebrations.

The site is also sacred to the Traditional Owners of Ipswich, the Jagera, Yuggera and Ugarapul People. 

If you’re keen for a stroll, there are 5 different walks ranging from 400m to 800m in distance, catering for different fitness levels. On these walks you can reach lookouts to admire the Brisbane River (closed temporarily in Sep 2025), do a bit of bird spotting and admire the vast array of plant life.  With only the sound of the trees and birds and the smell of clean forest air, taking one of these walks is the perfect way to recharge. 

The gardens have plenty of facilities throughout the grounds including BBQ’s, gazebos, picnic tables, drinking water and public toilets.  

If you want to get back to nature and need an excuse to relax, why not pack a picnic, put on your walking shoes and visit one of Ipswich’ best kept secrets, a place to escape and appreciate nature at its best.  

by Eva Lewis