Rock art tour in Murujuga National Park

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SET IN STONE

By Chris Morton

Just a stone’s throw away from Hearson Cove sits some of the most amazing rock art in the world. Looking like an ancient giant has tipped out bucket loads of rocks, the boulder-strewn area is alive with stories.

Excerpt from Hema’s Pilbara map. We met up with Rangers from the Murujuga National Park, who, after calling out to their ancestors to let them know that we were there, took us for a tour of this amazing place. Now, I have never been to the Louvre in France, however I think this place has got it beat. The pindan red rocks make for a canvas capable of withstanding almost everything mother nature can throw at it. Rock inscriptions more than 10,000 years old adorn the landscape, each telling a story. Here, a Tasmanian tiger, documented proof of their existence not only on the mainland

Emu (Jankurna).

but here on the west coast. Over there, a megafauna kangaroo, drawn during a time when these gargantuan marsupials grazed and were a prized food source. In front of us, a Tasmanian devil. More evidence of where these creatures once roamed. The site has been transformed in the previous couple of years, with the installation of concrete footpaths, viewing platforms and interpretive signage, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy and experience this remarkable place. Further in, the rocky maze is off limits to all but a few elders. Petroglyphs warn visitors past and present that there is a sacred site which requires initiation before entry can be granted. The Rangers go on to tell us that this was more than just a place to record stories. It was also a well-used place to live, evidenced by the various artefacts and other discoveries made here.

As well as petroglyphs, there are stone tools and other artefacts around the site.

To get the most out of your visit here, we highly recommend you book onto a tour and have one of the Rangers walk you through. Their knowledge will richly enhance your visit and give you a greater appreciation for the artwork and significance of the site. If your schedule won’t allow a tour, then make sure you at least come out and visit it. Please ensure that you treat the rock art site with the respect that it deserves. Stay on the paths and do not enter the restricted area. When you are taking photos of the rock art, avoid taking photos of any of the art that depicts a human.