Australian Fossil Mammal Sites: A Tourist’s Guide to Riversleigh and Naracoorte

Introduction

Welcome to a fascinating journey through time, as we delve into two remarkable Australian fossil mammal sites: Riversleigh in Queensland and Naracoorte in South Australia. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer unique insights into the Earth’s history, showcasing an extraordinary array of extinct mammals that roamed these lands millions of years ago.

Riversleigh

Location

Riversleigh is located in the Lawn Hill National Park, approximately 300 km southwest of Townsville and 120 km northeast of Mount Isa in North West Queensland. The site spans over 9,600 square kilometers and includes a vast network of caves and fossil-rich rivers.

History

The Riversleigh World Heritage Area has yielded some of the world’s richest fossil mammal deposits, dating back to the early Miocene period (around 23 million years ago). The area is home to over 60 genera and 150 species of extinct marsupials.

What to See

• Fossil Caves: Explore the ancient caves, some of which are still active today. Guided tours are available to see fossils in their natural habitat.
• Museums: Visit the Riversleigh Fossil Centre at Lawn Hill National Park Visitor Centre for an introduction to the area’s geology and fossil history.
• Wildlife Spotting: Apart from the fossils, Riversleigh is home to a variety of modern-day wildlife, including wallabies, kangaroos, and various bird species.

Naracoorte

Location

Naracoorte is located in the South Australian midlands, approximately 270 km southeast of Adelaide. The town sits atop a vast limestone deposit, which houses one of the world’s most significant fossil sites.

History

The Naracoorte Caves were formed over 350,000 years ago and contain some of the best-preserved fossils in the world, dating back to the late Pleistocene era (around 46,000 years ago). The site is home to a diverse range of extinct marsupials, including giant kangaroos, wombats, and the Marsupial Lion.

What to See

• Caves: Visit the Naracoorte Caves National Park and explore the various caves, such as Blanche’s, Victoria Fossil Cave, and the Jeannie Cave. Guided tours are available.
• Museums: The Naracoorte Town Hall Museum showcases local history, including the fossil discoveries at the caves.
• Wildlife Spotting: The area around Naracoorte is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, and various bird species.

Practical Information

Getting There

Both Riversleigh and Naracoorte are accessible by car. For Riversleigh, the closest major city is Townsville, which has an airport with regular flights from several Australian cities. Naracoorte can be reached via Adelaide, which also has an international airport.

Accommodation

Accommodation options range from camping in national parks to hotels and bed & breakfasts in nearby towns. It’s recommended to book in advance during peak travel seasons.

Tips for Visiting

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you will be doing a fair amount of walking.
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially when visiting during the summer months.
• Be respectful of the fossils and the environment. Do not touch or collect any fossils.

Conclusion

A trip to Riversleigh and Naracoorte offers a unique opportunity to explore Australia’s rich geological history. These sites showcase an extraordinary array of extinct marsupials, offering insights into the continent’s past and contributing to our understanding of Earth’s history. We hope this guide has been helpful in planning your visit!