Wednesday, 4 May 2022

Where are the Peaks?

The stars mark some of the rhyolite peaks
in the Scenic Rim
The Moogerah or Fassifern Peaks are found scattered around Boonah in south-east Queensland. They are very special due to the unique scenery and the rare plants and animals found there.

Many of the peaks are in the public estate and collectively called Moogerah Peaks National Park. Some notable peaks in the Scenic Rim are - Mt Greville, Mt Moon, Mt Alford, Mt French, Mt Maroon, and the giant Mt Barney. There are also many minor bumps and lumps to add to the spectacular scenery. 

They are also known as Rhyolite Peaks. Rhyolite is a volcanic rock which has the same composition as granite but is finer grained. It is formed from the cooling and solidification of lava flowing out of a volcano. 

Because the peaks are relatively undisturbed, the natural vegetation of the area has remained intact and therefore provides significant habitat for wildlife including Peregrine Falcon, Koala, and Brush-tailed Rock-wallaby.

Bossaea rupicola on Mt French
photo: A. Podlich
The vegetation is mostly montane heath on exposed rock faces with open eucalypt forest in areas with more soil. In sheltered areas there are some patches of rainforest. Endemic flora species occur on the peaks that can be found nowhere else on earth.