Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Bunjil Shelter

Just 10 minutes drive out of Stawell, and one of the most important Victorian sites in Aboriginal culture, Bunjil Shelter was on our must visit list. 
An information board in the carpark gave us directions to the site, which was just a short distance away.
Bunjil  Shelter

Sandy gravel paths and stone steps led up to the rock formations on the hill.
Bunjil  Shelter


In the 1960's, a fence was put around the cave to protect it from further vandalism. I didn't mind having to peer through the fence, for the privilege of being able to see such a significant piece of art in its original site.
Bunjil  Shelter

The painting depicts Bunjil the creator and two dingoes, taking shelter in this cave. Red ochre and white clay coloured the portrait of the deity and his canine companions. It's the only known rock painting of Bunjil.
Bunjil  Shelter 
Some of the granite rocks had sheer faces, as if sliced by a huge knife. Others were smooth and round, like enormous eggs.The colours ranged from golden brown to dark charcoal in places.Bunjil  Shelter
The views from the site were amazing. The wide brown land was dotted with trees, which became increasingly more dense as it neared the Grampians in the distance.
Bunjil  Shelter
The 200m track was easy to walk and only a short section was steep.
Bunjil  Shelter



The area was quiet, with only the sound of birds overhead and in the surrounding trees. I spotted a few wildflowers, but no wildlife. 
Whilst we were there,  only one other  car arrived, making our visit that much more serene and we could imagine what it must have been like here  over 8,000 years ago, when the artist painted the rock.
Well worth the visit.
Bunjil  Shelter

What: Bunjil Shelter
Where: Bunjils Cave Rd, Black Range Scenic Reserve
When: Daily      
Why: Aboriginal art
How much: FREE

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