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Possum Tree Walk, Racecourse Flora Reserve, Balingup Possum Tree Walk, Racecourse Flora Reserve, Balingup

  • Less than 1 hour
  • 1.9 km
    • Bush Walk Class 2

      Easy trail with modified or hardened surface, and gentle hills or occasional steps. Clear directional signage. No bushwalking experience required. May be suitable for assisted wheelchair users (if ramps are provided at steps).

The 1.9 kilometre return Possum Tree Walk is located on Racecourse Flora Reserve, 2.5km out of Balingup near Mullalyup. This flora reserve is a significant area of protected bushland, virtually an island in a sea of farmland.

Walking Possum Tree Walk
Earn 1 Point Wildflower Wanderer
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Racecourse Flora Reserve is situated between the towns of Mullalyup and Balingup, approximately 2.5 kilometers northwest of Balingup.  In 1999 the Balingup community identified bushland considered worthy of protection in three adjoining reserves. These reserves contained abundant flora and areas of conservation value. The reserves included the site of the old racetrack and gymkhana ground. The three reserves are now amalgamated and vested with the Shire of Donnyrook-Balingup as a reserve for the purpose of conservation and recreation.

The reserve (approx 108 ha) is an island of bushland surrounded by cleared land. It straddles the Mullalyup Brook/Balingup divide and is underlaid by the Kirup Conglomerate, a geological formation uncommon in the area.

While some areas within the reserve are degraded from previous activities, many areas are in very good condition. The Balingup Friends of the Forest, with the help of supporters and the Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup, continue to both protect the high conservation value bush and restore degraded areas.

In Spring, the reserve becomes a blaze of colour, with an amazing abundance and diversity of wildflowers. Each week of spring sees change until early December.  Banksia grandis (Bull Banksia) is one of the last plants to flower, with its wonderful bright yellow candles, which then form into the well-known Banksia ‘see’ or ‘nut’.

A copy of the herbarium for the reserve is held by the Balingup Friends of the Forest. The herbarium contains photocopies of the plants identified on the reserve, along with their botanical names.

Balingup Visitor Centre

(08) 9764 1818

Other Links

  • Australia’s South West

    Comprehensive information on the South West region including destinations, things to see and do, accommodation and tours.

Be trail ready for Possum Tree Walk, Racecourse Flora Reserve, Balingup

Here is everything you need to know before visiting this trail.

Time / Duration

30 minutes

Length

1.9 kilometres return

What To Pack

Group B (Bushwalks and/or longer trails) required.

Trail Start

South West Highway, Balingup

Get directions

Trail End

Bush Walk

Class 2

Easy trail with modified or hardened surface, and gentle hills or occasional steps. Clear directional signage. No bushwalking experience required. May be suitable for assisted wheelchair users (if ramps are provided at steps).

Visit Trail Tips for further information.

Facilities

  • Car Park
  • Dog Friendly
  • Interpretive Centre
  • Picnic Area
  • Shaded Area

Best time of year

August to October

Trail Access

Bus or Road to Balingup, Road to trail

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Complete Possum Tree Walk, Racecourse Flora Reserve, Balingup to earn badges and points!

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Wildflower Wanderer

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1 trail goers have rated Possum Tree Walk, Racecourse Flora Reserve, Balingup as 4 out of 5!

We love to hear from people who've been on our Western Australian trails, so it would be most appreciated it if you wanted to leave a review.

Deb Vanallen

Reviewed 28 Apr 2016, 1:45pm

This is a fabulous short walk as part of the Race Course Flora Reserve in Balingup. There's a diverse range of flora and fauna to be seen and the wildflowers are stunning! Would definitely recommend spending time exploring this reserve. The nearby town of Balingup is also definitely worth a visit.

Supported by great organisations

Trails are free and bring so many benefits to our community by providing opportunities to have fun, get fit, socialise, explore and challenge yourself. But they also have to be managed and maintained which only is made possible through terrific sponsors, donations and/or volunteering.

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