Riflebird Lodge – A wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the Atherton Tablelands

Riflebird Lodge is a privately owned wildlife lodge located in the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland.

Surrounded by rainforest and native bushland, the lodge offers an immersive nature experience for guests seeking close encounters with local wildlife, birdlife, and the tranquillity of Far North Queensland.

Our lodge is ideally suited for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, photographers and nature lovers. Guests regularly spot native birds, marsupials, reptiles and other wildlife directly from the lodge grounds. The Atherton Tablelands are internationally recognised for their biodiversity, and Riflebird Lodge provides a peaceful base to experience this unique environment.

• Exclusive wildlife lodge with accommodation and facilities tailored to the needs of keen wildlife and birding enthusiasts
• Internationally recognized artistic and scientific history relating to the original owners of the property – William T Cooper and Wendy Cooper
• 160 acres of exclusive tropical rainforest, protected by the Topaz Rainforest Nature Refuge – one of the first established in Queensland
• Extensive and well maintained walking trail network, leading to two permanent fresh-water streams and swimming spots
• Regular sightings of iconic fauna including Victoria’s Riflebird, Southern Cassowary, Chowchilla, Catbird, Musky Rat Kangaroo and many more – see the expansive species list below
• An unrivaled sanctuary of tranquility and isolation in the heart of the rainforest

The Cooper Legacy

The property now known as Riflebird Lodge was previously the home and sanctuary of William T. Cooper and his wife Wendy Cooper, who lived here for 37 years between 1987 and 2024

William was a renowned Australian artist, celebrated for his exceptional talent in illustrating birds with incredible precision and realism. Born in 1934, he developed a deep passion for wildlife from a young age, becoming largely self-taught in his craft. His work, which featured both native Australian and international bird species, was admired for its detailed accuracy and vivid portrayal of nature. Cooper’s illustrations appeared in numerous books, exhibitions, and journals, earning him international recognition as one of the world’s foremost bird artists

In addition to their artistic and scientific endeavours, Bill and Wendy Cooper were deeply committed to conservation. They established the Topaz Rainforest Nature Refuge, one of the first nature refuges to be established in Queensland and a sanctuary dedicated to preserving the unique biodiversity of the region. The refuge provided a safe haven for local wildlife and helped protect the delicate rainforest ecosystem. Their work in conservation was a natural extension of their passion for the environment, and it reflected their belief in the importance of protecting Australia’s rich natural heritage

William T. Cooper passed away in 2015, leaving behind a rich legacy in the world of natural history art. His and Wendy’s contributions continue to influence and inspire those passionate about nature and the arts

Accommodation

Riflebird Lodge can host up to six guests across two separate residences.

To provide complete privacy and a tailored experience, we exclusively host one group at one time

We invite you to select between the Attenborough Suite and the Main Lodge to best suit your group’s needs

The Main Lodge

This was the main residence of Bill and Wendy Cooper for the 40 years that they lived in Topaz

• 1 master bedroom with queen size bed and attached ensuite bathroom
• 1 small single bedroom with external toilet access from the verandah or via the main bedroom
• Laundry with washing machine and dryer
• Well appointed kitchen with all domestic appliances and equipment one would require
• Dining area with 6 seater dining table
• Tv and entertainment area
• Satellite WIFI connection
• Ceiling fans and dehumidifiers throughout
• Verandah – fully enclosed with mosquito net
• Gazebo overlooking the rainforest and our resident birds

Room Facilities

• Self-contained 1 bedroom chalet separate from the main Lodge building
• Private en suite bathroom with shower
• Queen size double bed
• Additional small single bed suitable for a small adult or child
• Wall fan & dehumidifier
• Satellite WIFI connection
• Garden views with frequent wildlife encounters
• Direct access to the nature refuge walking trails

Activities & Attractions

Riflebird Lodge is ideal for couples, solo travellers and small groups looking for a wildlife lodge experience in Queensland. Our guests include birdwatchers, eco-tourists, international visitors and Australians seeking a nature-based retreat away from crowds.

Here are some of the highlights and activities you can undertake during you stay:

• Explore the multiple walking trails through the nature refuge in search of iconic wildlife, flora and fungi
• Relax around the lodge and enjoy the the frequent visits from multiple bird, reptile and marsupials species
• Enjoy a refreshing swim in our permanent fresh water creeks
• Take in the amazing artworks by Bill Cooper displayed in the lodge – all of which are of local bird species
• Go on a night wildlife walk along Westcott road (or the nature trails) in search of multiple nocturnal species
• Hike up the iconic mount Bartle Frere – the highest mountain in Queensland – 1622m
• Try to spot some of the plant species previously discovered on the property by Wendy Cooper
• Just relax and enjoy the peace and quiet offered by our lovely location

The Topaz Rainforest Nature Refuge

Established in 1996, the Topaz Rainforest Nature Refuge is composed of the Riflebird Lodge property and 2 other neighbouring properties, making up approximately 250 acres of protected rainforest

It was only the 8th nature refuge to be established in Queensland, and therefore a very early pioneer in the conservation of our precious flora and fauna. Queensland now has 574 established nature refuges protecting approximately 12.5 million acres of land

The established walking trail network allows access to many different areas of the property, allowing an immersive rainforest experience. A relaxing stroll through the trails is frequently rewarded with sightings of the Southern Cassowary and many other iconic animals.

Guest will be provided with an up-to-date map of the trails, which are clearly marked and regularly maintained. The freshwater creeks at the western edge of the property are great spots for animal watching, relaxing and a refreshing swim

Being surrounded by tropical rainforest, we have frequent visits from all types of animals including many snakes and spiders. Although most animals you will encounter are harmless, we encourage our guest to tread carefully, especially at night, in order to avoid any unpleasant encounters.

Getting Here

Located in the Atherton Tablelands, Riflebird Lodge is close to rainforest walking tracks, crater lakes and World Heritage-listed environments. Whether you are visiting for wildlife observation, birdwatching or a quiet rainforest escape, the lodge offers comfortable accommodation surrounded by nature.

The road to the Lodge is almost entirely sealed bitumen and is suitable for all cars. The trip winds through some stunning Far North Queensland scenery, so please take your time and look out for wildlife on the road, especially at dawn and dusk

Once you turn right off Topaz road onto Westcott road, our driveway is the first right turn after about 300m from the turn off.

PLEASE NOTE: If you miss the entrance and drive past the property, it can be slightly tricky to turn around as the road is narrow all the way to the end.

Drive times to Riflebird Lodge:

• Malanda – 20 min
• Yungaburra – 25 min
• Atherton – 40 min
• Mareeba – 60 min
• Cairns – 90 min

BOOKINGS & CONTACT

TO BOOK YOUR STAY, USE THE CALENDAR BELOW TO SELECT YOUR PREFERRED AVAILABLE DATES

WE WILL CONFIRM YOUR BOOKING VIA EMAIL ASAP

ALTERNATIVELY, YOU CAN USE ONE OF THE BOOKING SITE LINKS BELOW

ACCOMMODATION PRICES

PLEASE NOTE : We have a 2 night minimum stay – All prices are in AU$

1 guest in the Main Lodge only: $ 240 / night

2 or 3 guests in the Main Lodge only : $ 310 / night

4 guests in the Main Lodge and Attenborough suite: $ 390 / night

5 guests in the Main Lodge and Attenborough suite: $ 460 / night

6 guests in the Main Lodge and Attenborough suite: $ 530 / night

Please get in touch with us for longer stay discount (5 days or longer)

Email: admin@riflebirdlodge.com.au

Phone: +61 421572489

Address: 60 Westcott Road, Topaz, QLD 4885

Species List at Riflebird Lodge

A brief list of the species frequently encountered around the lodge and in the surrounding forest

• Victoria’s riflebird (Ptiloris victoriae) – Endemic
• Southern cassowary (Casuarius casuarius)
• Musky rat-kangaroo (Hypsiprymnodon moschatus) – Endemic
• Spotted catbird (Ailuroedus maculosus)
• Chowchilla (Orthonyx spaldingii) – Endemic
• Macleay’s honeyeater (Xanthotis macleayanus) – Endemic
• Herbert River ringtail possum (Pseudochirulus herbertensis) – Endemic
• Common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula)
• Common ringtail possum (Pseudocheirus peregrinus)
• Striped possum (Dactylopsila trivirgata)
• Lewin’s honeyeater (Meliphaga lewinii)
• Spectacled monarch (Symposiachrus trivirgatus)
• Red-browed finch (Neochmia temporalis)
• Leaf-tailed geckos (Saltuarius)
• Australian king parrot (Alisterus scapularis)
• Boyd’s forest dragon (Lophosaurus boydii) – Endemic
• Eastern water dragon (Intellagama lesueurii lesueurii)
• Carpet python (Morelia spilota)
• Amethystine python (Simalia amethistina)
• Eastern small-eyed snake (Cryptophis nigrescens)
• Marsupial mouse (Antechinus)

Frequently Asked Questions

What should guests bring with them to maximise their experience at the Lodge?

We recommend that our guests bring the following items with them:

• Hiking boots or gum boots
• Rain coat
• Lightweight long sleeve shirt and long pants – neutral colours preferred
• Warm clothes for the cool evenings – particularly during May to September when overnight temps can drop to 10 degrees Celsius
• Camera & Binoculars
• Small day pack for hikes
• Food and drinks for the duration of your stay
• Swimming suit for a refreshing dip in the creek
• A sense of adventure and discovery

What weather and temperatures can guest expect ?

Topaz, located in the Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland (FNQ), experiences a tropical upland climate characterized by high rainfall, significant humidity, and warm temperatures year-round. Situated at a higher altitude (approx. 600m above sea level), it is cooler than the coastal areas but frequently wet. 

• Wet Season/Summer (Nov – March): Hot, very humid, and extremely wet. Afternoon thunderstorms are frequent. Tropical cyclones can occur.
• Dry Season/Winter (April – Oct): Cooler, with lower humidity and clearer days. Occasional thunderstorms may still occur but are much less common.
• Temperature: Daily maximums typically hover around 25°C to 31°C in summer, while dropping to a comfortable 17°C to 24°C in winter. Nights can feel cool in winter, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 15°C.

When is the best time to see the iconic mating displays of Vistoria’s Riflebird?

The mating displays are most common in the early mornings (although also occur in the afternoons at times) between August and November. Look for display posts (often trees which have broken half way up the trunk) and listen for the amazing sound they produce with their beak and wings

Do you have mobile phone service and internet service at the lodge?

Yes we have some limited coverage by Telstra (the national mobile phone carrier), but more reliable coverage is provided by connecting to the Lodge WIFI and using the signal boost that provides. However, when walking the trails you will not have internet or mobile phone coverage.

What facilities and equipment are available for guest use?

• Wildlife guide books for identification of the local fauna
• Umbrellas for wet days
• Insect and leech repellent
• Basic first aid kit
• In the kitchen you will find black tea, coffee, sugar, milk, salt, olive oil and an ice maker
• Fire extinguisher and fire blanket
• TV in the main lodge with most streaming platforms

Do visitors need any specific vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis to visit? What common nuisances can visitors expect to find?

• Fortunately, Australia has been malaria free since 1981 and dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases are not endemic and very rare
• Yellow fever is also not found in Australia so vaccination is not required
• The most common nuisances we find in our forest are leeches, mosquitoes and march flies (Bibionidae – October/November generally)
• Being in the rainforest, you can expect to find snakes, spiders and other insects, however generally these will not pose a danger to our guests