Camping at Carnarvon Gorge, October 2020
The main track at Carnarvon Gorge is 9.7 kilometres one way. With several sets of steps, many creek crossings and some gradual inclines, the track is classed as Grade 3/4 and is suitable for bushwalkers with some experience. Nine side tracks off the main track lead to the scenic wonders of the gorge. The walk to the Art Gallery begins 5.1 kilometres from the Visitor Centre.
The Art Gallery at Carnarvon Gorge is not your usual gallery. It’s located in the middle of the bush, the work on display is more than 3,500 years old and some of the techniques used to create the images are unique to this area. Its location high on a sandstone wall means it’s an uphill walk, but it’s definitely worth the effort.
The track is just 340 metres and most of the way the incline is gradual. There’s no need to rush – go slowly and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
As the track becomes steeper, the sense that something special lies ahead grows stronger. Roughly hewn steps lead up between huge slabs of rock towards the entrance to the gallery.
The Art Gallery is a collection of more than 2,000 images crafted on the stone by the indigenous Bidjara and Karingbal people. Stencils, paintings and engravings depict tools, animal tracks and the hands and feet of people from long ago. The gallery is viewed from a 62 metre long boardwalk, giving visitors the ability to see the ancient works close up, without causing damage.
The people who lived here told stories through these images, recording their connection to country, their way of life and their spiritual beliefs. Their works have survived for more than 3,500 years and their stories are still being told.
Joining Jo for Monday Walks
That is simply amazing, Carol! Presumably you’d read about this gallery and new to expect it? What a find! Thanks so much for linking 🙂 🙂
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Oh yes, we knew what was there. I’ve been before, as a child with my family, but the others hadn’t seen it so they were very impressed. It’s quite spectacular and in excellent condition.
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Fascinating stories told via art pieces.
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It was great to read the information boards and learn what all the different representations meant.
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That’s spectacular. I have seen San bushmen paintings in Africa which are similar. It’s quite an emotional sight.
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How fabulous!
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That’s a great word to describe it, Anabel. It’s amazing to see all the paintings.
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What an amazing gallery! I have heard that outdoor galleries are going to become more common after COVID but I love this was in place all along!
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Lol! Yes, this gallery was way ahead of its time, doing street art long before it was a thing. 🙂
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Wow, this is amazing! There’s something especially haunting about those hand outlines, just thinking of a person so long ago placing their hand in that spot to create the image 😮
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Yes, it’s fascinating to imagine the people who created these works.
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Amazing! And the rock art is incredible!
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It’s great to see so much rock art in one place and it’s very well preserved.
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I bet! So glad it’s well preserved 🙂
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wow, what wonderful art – we seem to have lost the art of story telling in the west. It is such a magical way of passing on shared heritage
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I think there’s is plenty of quality story telling still. It’s just done in a very different way.
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That’s good to hear
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What strikes me most is how well preserved these thousands year old art forms are! Any such art by Indigenous peoples in Canada is very weathered from snow and ice. Perhaps a benefit of the Australian weather, this art gallery is so pristine.
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There’s definitely no snow and ice in this part of the world and limited rain as well. 🙂 I’m sure it makes a big difference.
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Wonderful photos and great museum! Another one for the bucket list.
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I see a trip to Carnarvon Gorge in your future! 🙂
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Would love that but working now. 🙁
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A holiday plan for the future then.
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Another great walk. The artwork is in such great condition, it must be wonderful to see.
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It’s amazing Graham. Incredible to think of the people who created these images.
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So very interesting, just imagine going back to that time and what the place once meant.
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This area is still sacred to the local indigenous people, although they don’t live here any more. They would certainly have lots of local knowledge and it would be interesting to hear them talk about it.
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