Expect the unexpected ' down under'

Australia is the land of the unexpected which is particularly true for its flora and fauna. In Queensland on the eastern fringes alone there are more than 8500 species of plants endemic to this country. Many are able to hold off the viability of their seeds until dry conditions become more favourable, others seem to thrive on fire and even encourage it with the oil content of their leaves while other species again prevent fire from spreading and will die after the job is done. Many of the rainforest species have medicinal properties but their secrets are still waiting to be discovered.

The Lilly Pilly is one of the rainforest trees which inhabit the riparian areas of most creeks and rivers at the Discovery Coast.
There are about 20 species showing beautiful red and pink new growth most of the year.
Lilly Pillies have become more and more popular for the home garden and the edible fruits borne on many species are an extra incentive.

Grevillea, Callistemon, Banksia
Three typical Australian plants

Eucalyptus trees are the food plants of the koala which used to populate the area of the Discovery Coast. Out of the many species of eucalyptus only a few are chosen by the koala for food. Locals try to build up green corridors to prepare the re-introduction of the koalas here.