Monday 11/03/2024 Petroglyphs Coastal Walk laraturunawn / Sundown Point – Sundown Creek
Near Arthur River, Tarkine region, lutruwita / TASMANIA
Palawa Country
Participants: Stephen Davies (Photos), Sue Davies (Report)
Following our excellent Arthur River cruise on the Red Boat yesterday, we were leaving the township of Arthur River to explore the north coast. We called into the National Parks office to ask about walks in the area. The Petroglyph coastal walk was recommended.
Max elevation: 9 m
Total climbing: 37 m
Total descent: -37 m
Average speed: 3.76 km/h
Total time: 01:11:38
We followed the directions given by the National Parks office to start near the Nelson Bay campground. This was an easy coastal walk heading initially along an old 4-wheel drive track and then along the beach.
Petrogylphs at Sundown Creek
We reached Sundown Creek and realised we were close. We spent some time looking around for the rock carvings and eventually found them close to the shoreline. These are estimated to be about 2,000 years old and were mainly circles and geometric shapes. We were pleased we did find them in the end. We retraced our steps back to the car.
The local landscape features, geology, scenic highlights, flora, fauna, indigenous history, white history and other walks in the area (Gemini)
The Petroglyph Coastal Walk is a short walking track situated on the Tarkine Coast in Tasmania’s north-west. The Tarkine region is renowned for its rugged coastline, temperate rainforests, and Aboriginal cultural heritage.
Landscape Features and Geology
Coastal setting: The walk traverses a section of the Tarkine coastline, characterised by dramatic dolerite cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky headlands.
Dolerite geology: The cliffs and headlands are formed from dolerite, a dark-coloured and fine-grained igneous rock.
Sundown Creek: The walk follows the southern bank of Sundown Creek, a small seasonal stream that flows into the ocean.
Scenic Highlights
Coastal vistas: The walk offers panoramic views of the wild and exposed Tarkine coastline, with crashing waves and dramatic rock formations.
Beach walking: The route incorporates sections of sandy beach walking, providing a pleasant coastal experience.
Aboriginal petroglyphs: The key highlight of the walk is the presence of Aboriginal petroglyphs, which are estimated to be approximately 2,000 years old.
Local Flora
The vegetation along the Petroglyph Coastal Walk varies depending on the specific location:
Coastal scrub: Exposed areas support coastal scrub vegetation adapted to salt spray and wind. This may include species such as coastal wattle (Acacia sophorae) or saltbush (Atriplex spp.).
Beach spinifex: Sandy areas may support spinifex grasses (Spinifex spp.) which help to stabilise the dunes.
Riparian vegetation: The banks of Sundown Creek may be fringed with taller vegetation such as blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) or tea tree (Melaleuca spp.).
Local Fauna
The fauna of the Petroglyph Coastal Walk reflects the coastal environment:
Birds: Seabirds such as gulls (Laridae family) or oystercatchers (Haematopus spp.) may be sighted along the coastline.
Reptiles: Snakes such as tiger snakes (Notechis scutulatus) are present in Tasmania, so caution is advised while walking.
Marine life: The waters offshore support a variety of marine life, including fish, dolphins, and whales (although sightings are less frequent).
Indigenous History
The petroglyphs located along the walk are a significant aspect of the Aboriginal cultural heritage of the region. The palawa people are the traditional custodians of this land. The petroglyphs, which consist mainly of circles and geometric shapes, provide a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic expression of Aboriginal Tasmanians. Further consultation with Tasmanian Aboriginal people is needed for a deeper understanding of the significance of these rock carvings.
White History
European settlement in the Tarkine region began in the early 19th century. Land was cleared for grazing and timber harvesting became a major industry. The Arthur River township, located near the walk’s starting point, reflects this history. The recognition of the cultural significance of the petroglyphs has led to their protection and the establishment of the walking track for controlled access.
Other Walks
The Tarkine region offers a range of walking tracks catering to different interests and fitness levels. Some options include:
Tarkine Forest Walks: Explore a variety of looped or multi-day walks through the world-heritage Tarkine rainforest.
Rocky Cape National Park: Hike along dramatic coastal cliffs and discover diverse flora and fauna.
West Coast beaches: Explore remote and pristine beaches along the Tarkine coastline.
The Petroglyph Coastal Walk provides a unique opportunity to combine a scenic coastal experience with the chance to view Aboriginal rock art. The walk offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Tasmania’s Tarkine region.
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