The Pilliga National Park
Wild and remote classic Australian landscape. Pilliga is traditional Country of the Gamilaroi People, one of the largest indigenous nations in Australia. The Sandstone Caves are an cherished First Nation site and were used for shelter and much more (See Traditional notes below). Grinding grooves, sharpening marks, rock art and other Aboriginal sites provide a strong link with their traditional times dating back tens of thousands of years. National Parks
Though identified as a National Park, the area consists of The Pilliga Forest, occasionally referred to as the Pilliga Scrub, which encompasses the Pilliga Nature Reserve, Timmallallie National Park, as well as the Pilliga West and East State Conservation Areas.
Situated in proximity to Baradine, the expansive Pilliga Forest spans over half a million hectares, offering around 2,000 kilometers of accessible trails for the public to explore, whether by foot or car. Visitors have the opportunity to establish camp at the no-cost Sculptures in the Scrub campground located within Timmallallie National Park.
Pilliga Forest is an iconic Australian landscape offering rugged beauty on a grand scale. Rich red earth and soft grey-green foliage set against deep blue skies, the colour schemes alone are worth the look.
The area is steeped in Aboriginal history, with the Salt caves and Sandstone caves significant shelter locations for their peoples (would love some images of the Salt caves if anyone would like to submit some?
LOCATION TIPS:
Sandstone Caves area is not signposted (at the request of Aboriginal Elders) You will find the entrance road to the Sandstone caves market as Yaminba Trail off the Newell Hwy approximately 34km North of Coonabarabran. The road is dirt and 2wd accessible with the walking trail not too far along. TOILETS have been installed along the walking track
Follow this link for the best driving directions to the Sculptures in the Scrub walk, picnic and campgrounds. via Baradine. Approx 25km dirt but 2wd accessible.
CREATIVE INSPIRATION
The layering and carved effects of weathering in the Sandstone Caves is an artwork in itself. At both the Sculpture Park and caves, you will find an abundance of scrub plants knitting and weaving against the rich coloured soil, a pallet worth exploring. At the moment(2023), there is also a gorgeous stark contrast between the burned trunks of 2019 Fires and the soft tones of shrubbery.
PHOTOGRAPHY
The Sandstone caves is your best photo location. Photography is permitted, however, visitors are requested not to use flash photography. Partially clouded morning light helps to get detail both inside and outside the cave. Morning also avoids the strong contrast between the shadows, direct sunlight, and white sandstone of an afternoon. The weathered sanstone results in beautiful shapes, colours and holes with great layered textures
PUBLIC ART
The Sculptures in the Scrub walk in Timmallallie National Park showcases award-winning sculptures that celebrate Aboriginal culture and history. Each sculpture is the result of an artist collaborating with local Aboriginal Elders and young people on a piece that tells a story of local Aboriginal history and culture --- If you’re walking the track in spring, you’ll likely be treated to a colourful and vibrant display of wildflowers. ---- In the Sandstone Caves you will spot Aboriginal rock art and carvings in the rock, along certain parts of the track way above your head
GALLERY
Pilliga Pottery and Farm Stay has a great selection of hand-crafted pottery items, and also offer pottery work shops. Dandry Rd, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 (Click on icon to got to website for details)
WALKS
Sandstone Caves is an easy walking track 1.7km loop through beautiful classic Australian scrub . the Sculptures in the Scrub walk in Timmallallie National Park is 3km rtn. Steep section to get down to the beautiful creek. Ther is also over 60kms of scenic bush walking tracks on the Pilliga Pottery property
CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE
Before early settlers the Sandstone caves was a busy meeting point or gathering place at the end of country. Different First nation groups come together and share their cultures, trade, for weddings and ceremonies ---- Once used for all aspects of traditional life. Discover grinding marks used to sharpen tools and weapons and Ancient artworks left behind come in the form of rock carvings of animals. ---- Different sections of caves were used for different parts of their community. In other wards a section for younger men and a different cave section for older men(showing larger tool grooves). ---- There are also a number of secret areas leading out from the caves exclusive to men or women where traditional ceremonies still take place and oral histories can be passed down. ---- Throughout the site you can find deep pockets carved into the stone. The used to be holding wells for water ---- To give you an idea of the depth of meaning the land has to the First Nation peoples Custodian Gamilaraay man Brett Ashby comments as to his connection to this land “I am this country, this country is me” ---- Need a week to explore the whole Pilliga Nature Reserve are well. It covers 200,000 acres of untouched bush land.
*FREE
$6 booking fee. Sculptures in the Scrub picnic area and campground 1km along Dandry Gorge Rd. Timmallallie National Park. FREE BBQ . TENT . CARAVAN . WALK . DROP TOILET . TABLES . PHONE RECEPTION ALONG WALKING TRACK (Tap icon to visit website)
***BUDGET
Yarrie Lake Camping. 173 Lake Circuit FIRE PIT . TENT . CARAVAN . POWER . WALK . FLUSH TOILET . SHOWER . SWIM . TABLES . (Tap icon to visit website)
****UNIQUE
Pilliga Pottery and Farmstay. 5 Unique Accommodation options for 2-5 people in each OLD SCHOOLHOUSE . POETS COTTAGE . STUDIO . WALKS . CAFE . WALKS . CAFE . POOL . DOG . (Tap icon to visit website)
****OMG
Pilliga Pottery and Farmstay. 5 options for 2-5 people in each, with the most gorgeous the OLD SCHOOLHOUSE enchanting octagonal “fairy tale castle”, hand-crafted from local timbers. POETS COTTAGE earthy and ambient building . STUDIO with hand-crafted beds and chunky beams in large living areas . WALKS . CAFE . POOL . DOG (Tap icon to visit website)
Respectfully Engaging with First Nation peoples
While travelling, acknowledge and honour their culture, traditions, and land. Here are some best practices:
- Education and Awareness: Learn about the history, culture, and customs of the First Nation peoples in the area you’re visiting. Understand the challenges and triumphs they’ve experienced. (e.g search online)
- Respect Sacred Sites: Many locations hold deep spiritual significance to indigenous communities. Respect their sacred sites by following any guidelines or restrictions in place and by not disturbing these areas.
- Seek Permission: When visiting indigenous communities or participating in cultural activities, seek permission and follow any protocols they have. Some communities may have specific ways to request entry or participate in events. (Area info centres should be able to point you in the right direction.)
- Support Local Communities: Purchase crafts or art directly from indigenous artists or shop at businesses that are owned and operated by First Nation peoples. This helps support their economy and preserves their cultural heritage.
- Listen and Learn: If given the opportunity to engage with members of indigenous communities, listen attentively and respectfully. Ask questions if appropriate, but be mindful and sensitive about the topics discussed. First Nation peoples tend to speak English and work at a slower pace. They take the time to contemplate their words and then respond.
- Use Respectful Language: Use appropriate terminology and avoid stereotypes or generalizations. If unsure, ask how they prefer to be identified or referenced. e.g it’s First Nation peoples, not Aboriginal people. Aunty and uncle are terms of respect rather than reference to family.
- Follow Local Regulations and Customs: Obey any rules or guidelines set by the community. This includes rules for photography, interaction, and behaviour within their spaces.
- Respect Personal Boundaries: Some customs or practices may differ from your own. Always ask for consent before taking photos or participating in ceremonies or activities.
- Respect the Land: Treat the environment with care and respect. Leave no trace, pick up your trash, and be mindful of the impact you have on the natural surroundings.
- Be Open-Minded and Respectful: Embrace different perspectives and understand that you’re a guest on their land. Approach every interaction with an open mind and a respectful attitude.
Remember, these are general guidelines. Practices, traditions, and expectations can vary greatly between different First Nation communities. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to ask questions or seek guidance on respectful conduct from local community leaders or guides.