Billai Dhagun Circuit

Billai Dhagun Circuit is a 2.4 km loop through Boondall Wetlands in northern Brisbane, an easy walk on boardwalks and graded paths through mangroves and casuarina forest. Dogs are welcome on leash, but they must stay on the marked tracks at all times to protect the Ramsar-listed shorebird habitat.

The walk. Graded 1 of 5 and flat the whole way, the circuit takes 30 minutes to an hour and suits prams and wheelchairs. Billai Dhagun means "place of she-oaks", named for the surrounding casuarina forest. The route crosses mangroves, salt flats and paperbark forest, passes a bird hide overlooking Nundah and Cabbage Tree creeks, and links to sections of the Nurri Millen Totems Trail, 18 Indigenous artworks along the way. It also connects to the Boondall Wetlands Bikeway if you want to extend the outing.

The rules. Dogs must stay on a leash at all times, and this is enforced strictly near the intertidal mudflats and mangroves. Walking off the designated tracks and boardwalks is prohibited, since this is protected wetland habitat under Brisbane City Council management. The reserve opens 6am to 7pm daily, and there is no off-leash area inside it. The nearest off-leash park is a separate site at Tuckeroo Park, Nudgee Beach. Bag and bin your dog's waste, as it washes straight into the wetland system.

Water. This is a look, not a swim. The creeks and mudflats are tidal, and dogs stay on the tracks rather than in the water. Bring your own water, as there is no dog water station on the circuit.

Hazards. Brisbane City Council has flagged washouts, ruts and uneven surfaces on some tracks following Tropical Cyclone Alfred, so check the council alert before heading out and watch your footing. Paths can also turn muddy or flood after rain.

Getting there. Free parking is at the Boondall Wetlands Environment Centre, off Paperbark Drive at the end of Bicentennial Road, just off the motorway. Toilets and picnic tables are near the centre, which opens Tuesday to Friday 9am to 4pm and weekends 9am to noon, closed Mondays. Boondall train station is nearby but a fair walk or short bus ride from the start.

Nearby with the dogs. For off-leash time, try Boondall Dog Park or the fenced Nudgee Waterhole Reserve Fenced Dog Park. For a coffee stop, Baaia at Sandgate or Green Field Cafe at Bracken Ridge are both close by.

When to go. Weekday afternoons, Tuesday to Friday, are quietest, while Sunday afternoons, Mondays and Saturday afternoons draw the most people. Time your visit to low tide for the best birdwatching from the hide. Good for seniors.

Sources

• Boondall Wetlands, Brisbane City Council · brisbane.qld.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.