Maryborough - Paddys Ranges State Park - North Central

Maryborough - Paddys Ranges State Park

Well-known for its wildflowers in springtime, Paddys Ranges State Park is home to 30 types of orchids and more than 140 native bird species like the rare Painted Honeyeaters and Swift Parrots.

Relics of the goldmining era scattered throughout the park. Visitors can retrace the steps of 'Paddy', a miner who reputedly roamed the area in the 1800s.

Enjoying the Park

Bushwalking

A pleasant track suitable for prams and wheelchairs begins at the picnic area and winds through the forest to an old eucalyptus distillery dam - 40 mins return.

Enjoy a spring wildflower walk along the self-guided Interpretive Trail from the picnic area. Or take a forest walk from the campground to the picnic area.

Picnics

Settling Ponds Track picnic area has tables, toilets and wood barbecues. We recommend bringing your own firewood.

Camping

Karri Track camping area has toilets and fireplaces. No fees apply, but it is advisable to contact the ranger to ensure site availability.

Horse Riding

Horse riding is permitted on formed open roads, but horses must not be taken on walking tracks. Horses must not remain in the park overnight.

Prospecting

Recreational prospecting is only permitted in designated areas. Prospectors must hold a current Miner's Right. Please do not drive off road, and fill any holes created by prospecting. Caution: Care must be taken as dangerous mine shafts occur throughout the park.

Paddys' friends and history

Who were you, Paddy? The people of Maryborough knew you simply as an Irishman, so the area southwest of the town where you lived, some time before the 1880s, became known as Paddys Ranges.

From the 1840s the area was used for grazing, gold mining, timber harvesting, eucalyptus oil and honey production. In 1951, the Maryborough Field Naturalists Club began pushing for the protection of the parks unique Box-Ironbark forest. In 1989, Paddys Ranges State Park was reserved.

The park was increased to 1,954ha in October 2002 to conserve and enhance what remains of the Box-Ironbark forests and woodlands of north central Victoria.

Access for Dogs:

Dogs and other pets are not permitted in the park.

Location and Access

Paddys Ranges State Park is 170km north west of Melbourne, just south of Maryborough. Sealed roads surround the park and there are good graded roads to visitor facilities.

Note: Photos from Parks Victoria