Mingara was formed in a volcanic uplift following the eruption of Mount Warning more than 20 million years ago. The rich red volcanic soil and the unique shelf formations are characteristic of its turbulent past.

But the turbulence of its origins belies the peace that allowed it to evolve into mature subtropical rainforest over the ensuing millennia. Aboriginal explorers from the Wangerriburra tribe came to Tamborine in search of the wild lime and wild yams. The mountain got its name from the Aboriginal word for the wild lime tree.

Mingara´s history is a 20 million year evolution. Rich volcanic soils and a most hospitable climate has resulted in a rainforest of incredible diversity and a unique habitat for thirteen lucky families.