The Botanic Gardens
A Living Legacy of Australian Flora
Acres of natives collected from all over Australia over the past 50 years — the original Sunshine Coast botanic gardens since 1975, which we are still uncovering and restoring.
Fairhill Adventure Gardens is Queensland's original native botanic gardens — planted more than half a century ago in 1975 by founders Alex and the late Barbara Hansa. After two generations of the Hansa family, tragedy caused the closure of Fairhill and the sub-tropical gardens were untended for decades.
Now under the stewardship of the Wright family, the gardens are slowly being restored to showcase the extraordinary diversity of Australian native plants — from subtropical rainforest species to arid-adapted beauties, coastal heath to wetland ecosystems. Local and visiting volunteers form the Fellowship of the Gardens, carefully and gently working on small areas at a time before enjoying complimentary coffee and cakes. The Fellowship meets on Tuesday mornings — ask at Reception if you'd like to join.
Whether you're a keen botanist, a casual nature lover, simply looking for a beautiful place to walk and unwind, or enjoying time with a four-legged friend, Fairhill's gardens offer something extraordinary in every season.
Explore our garden areas
From rainforest canopies to lakeside discovery
Each garden area offers a distinct experience — from gentle lawns to planted beds to wild restoration zones.
Subtropical Rainforest Walk
Follow the Forest Fairy Tale Trail through a canopy of towering native rainforest species. A cool, shaded retreat that transports you into the heart of the Australian bush.
Australian Native Gardens
Discover the diversity of Australian flora across themed displays — still under restoration. From coastal banksias to desert-adapted species, see the beauty and resilience of plants from across the continent.
Wetlands Around Turtle Lake — opening soon
Follow the Turtle Trail as it meanders around this tranquil dam teeming with birdlife. A favourite for photographers and nature lovers seeking a moment of serenity.
Walking Trails
Choose your own pace with trails ranging from gentle strolls to extended garden explorations.
Walking trails
Choose your own pace
Poetry Along the Lawns
A gentle loop through the lawns, gently undulating.
Forest Fairy Tale Trail
Meander through the subtropical rainforest with interpretive signage along the way.
Turtle Lake Trail
We're restoring this area — removing invasive weeds, bridging washed-out sections, clearing brash while preserving the canopy which teems with birdlife.
Every corner offers a different frame
Fairhill is one of the Sunshine Coast's most sought-after photography locations. Our gardens provide an ever-changing canvas of textures, colours and natural light that photographers and their clients love.
From wedding photography amongst the rainforest trees to family portraits in the gardens, every corner of Fairhill offers a unique backdrop. Golden hour is particularly magical.
Professional photography sessions are welcome — please contact us to discuss timing and any special access requirements.
- Wedding photography
- Family portraits
- Maternity shoots
- Engagement photos
- Commercial
Conservation & Land for Wildlife
More than a garden
A sanctuary for Australian wildlife and a champion of native plant conservation.
Land for Wildlife
Fairhill is a registered Land for Wildlife property, recognised for providing habitat for native animals.
Wildlife Habitat
Home to more than 73 bird species along with bandicoots, echidnas, kangaroos, possums, platypus, wallabies, water dragons, and countless native butterflies and other insects.
Native Plant Conservation
Our nursery and partners propagate rare and endangered species, contributing to conservation efforts across the region.
Sustainable Practices
Water-wise gardens, composting, biodynamic and organic methods. We do not use glyphosate ("Roundup") or other synthetic toxins.
Dog-Friendly Gardens
We love four-legged visitors at Fairhill! Well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome throughout the gardens. Stop by The Gardens Café — we have water bowls and shady spots for your pup to rest while you dine, along with treats and puppaccinos.
- • Dogs must be kept on lead at all times
- • Fairhill is a no-barking zone
Experience Fairhill's Gardens
Open Daily 8am–4pm. Explore the gardens, stop for coffee, and discover something new every visit.
114 Fairhill Road, Ninderry QLD 4561