Animal Encounters at Ipswich Nature Centre with Brisbane Author, Meredith Downes

Meet your tour guide at the entry of Ipswich Nature Centre in Queens Park, Ipswich. You will enjoy an hour guided walking tour to meet the furry and feathery residents who call the Nature Centre home. Learn about the amazing work the crew are undertaking for local wildlife and the important work the Centre continues to do to support the Bilbies. Afterwards join local Brisbane author, Meredith Downes to celebrate the book launch of Liam the Chid and the Kangaroo Warriors with fun activities, meet and greet, and book reading.

Meredith will also be available for meet and greets before and after each session on the day, so feel free to drop in and say hello for those not on the tour.  Located in the amphitheatre near the Bilbies enclosure in the Nature Centre.

Meredith Downes is a children’s author and illustrator from Brisbane. She loves to write adventures about all the quirky characters of the Australian bush she has met at home and in her travels around the country. Liam the Chid and the Kangaroo Warriors is her debut novel for kids (ages 8-12) that tells the tale of a young echidna, who must go on a perilous journey to seek the great kangaroo warriors and learn their secret fighting arts!

Upcoming date and sessions during September School Holidays:
Wednesday 24 September 2025: 9 am and 11 am sessions available

Cost: $5 per person

Location: Meet at the front gates at Ipswich Nature Centre (under the covered rotunda).
Duration: Up to 2 hours (1 hour tour and afterwards enjoy activities and meet the author).  All tours will meet 15 minutes prior to the start of session times.

Please bring: A water bottle and hat and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Access: Wheelchair accessible with assistance required in some areas of the trail.

Group limits apply per session – book now to reserve your spots!
Cancellation Notice: A minimum 72 hours cancellation notice is required.
Companion card holders are welcome, with free entry for carers. Limited availability per session. Please get in touch with the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre directly to book.

School groups and social groups are welcome to request the Animal Encounters tour, please get in touch with the Ipswich Visitor Information Centre directly.