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Introduction
(Back to top)Hidden among the suburban landscapes of North Rocks and Carlingford, behind houses and roads, is Hunts Creek Bushland - a patch of nature that provides a sanctuary for wildlife and amenity to locals and visitors.
In the 1960s, when the area was being developed, Council and progressive residents realised the importance of local bushland and worked to protect Hunts Creek Reserve.
It is now highly valued by the local community as a place for recreation, a peaceful escape, and a connection with the natural world.
Close to Hunts Creek Reserve is Seville Reserve. It has a smaller catchment area and has suffered less disturbance, and its bushland is generally in better condition.
For many bush plants and animals the reserves are home, and are vital for their survival. So far we have identified about 250 native plant species and 52 native birds, reptiles, amphibians and mammals that live in or visit the reserves.
Without ongoing care and management wildlife within the reserves face an uncertain future of weed infestation, plant and animal extinction, and water pollution.
Today the reserves form a vital part of the Lake Parramatta Hunts Creek corridor. These natural areas provide essential habitat for an array of native wildlife species across the Parramatta River Catchment. Please help to protect these values by following the reserve’s user regulations.
Vegetation
As you walk within Hunt Creek Reserve, you will pass through three distinct vegetation communities. Coastal Enriched Sandstone Moist Forest is located closer to the creek. Sections of Sydney Turpentine–Ironbark Forest and Coastal Enriched Sandstone Dry Forest occupy sections of the reserve as you move up the catchment and away from the creek.
History
Hunts Creek may be between four Darug tribal areas, the Burramattagal, Bidjigal, Terramerragal and Wallumattagal. It was described as the cleanest waters of the area by the early European settlers who used the water for making illegal peach cider. Bushranger Jack Donohue and his gang fled to the caves of Hunts Creek during the 1820s. They may have relied on the knowledge and lifestyles of Australia’s first peoples to survive. From 1876 James Burns built Gowan Brae and Burnside Presbyterian Orphan Homes and in 1955 the Gowan Brae section was purchased by The Kings School.
Walks and Tracks
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BALAKA FALLS CIRCUIT: Grade 3 – 1800m loop / 1 hr
This circuit provides you with a major scenic highlight, Balaka Falls, in the central location of Hunts Creek Reserve. From the falls, or several other entry points, you can enjoy a scenic loop walk around Hunts Creek taking in a variety of forest types that unfold along the way.
While the western creek crossing along the circuit may be impassable after rain, the eastern crossing (near Sun Valley Place entrance) on the loop is bridged and can be used in most conditions outside of flood events.
Balaka Falls Circuit forms an integral part of the trail corridor running along Hunts Creek offering ready access from Parkland Road down to Bettington Road. There are no public creekside trail connections down to Lake Parramatta.
HUNTS CREEK MULTIUSE PATH: Grade 2 – 600m one way / 15 min
The multiuse path along Hunts Creek runs from Bettington Road Trailhead northeast across to Northam Drive. The path is surfaced and bridged creek crossings allows for access in most conditions.
Travelling further east beyond Northam Drive you can follow a Grade 3 walking track, the Balaka Falls Circuit, up along Hunts Creek.
Along the way if creek levels are low, you can cross the creek and visit Balaka Falls.
To the west, of the Hunts Creek Multiuse Path, a short level walking track leads down along Hunts Creek to the boundary of The Kings School. Please note there are no public creekside trail connections down to Lake Parramatta.
Regulations and Cautions
Please be aware that creek crossings may be impassable during and after light to heavy rain events.
Do not use Balaka Falls Circuit when water is flowing over stepping stones at creek crossings.
Dogs are to be kept on leads at all times and cats are not allowed in the reserve at all.
No bicycles are allowed on walking tracks. Bicycles are permitted on ‘Hunts Creek Multiuse Path’ of the reserve.
Swimming is not advised in any areas of the reserve.
