WikiCamps Australia

The Humps Reserve & Mulka Cave

Point of Interest

Contact

Bates Road, Hyden, Western Australia.

(08) 9880 5182

(08) 9880 5022

waverock@wn.com.au

australiasgoldenoutback.com/business/attractions/mulkas-cave

Description

A 15 minute drive north of Wave Rock you will see a 'giant' lurching out of the bushland. This massive granite rock formation is known as the Humps - grab your hat, sun screen and water bottle and explore! Gnamma Trail (1,220 metres) On this trail are ten interpretive panels to help you understand this landscape using the words and illustrations of local Noongar elders and artists. It features two Gnamma (rock holes) and a lizard trap, all believed to have been used by Noongar people for centuries. Kalari Trail (1,670 metres) The trail climbs steadily (but not steeply) to the summit, which affords outstanding panoramic views of the outlying farming land. Interpretive signs focus on the fascinating geology of the rock and the plants that grow on it. Mulka's Cave - The name 'Mulka' comes from an Aboriginal Legend associated with the cave. As you enter the cave (take a few moments for your eyes to adjust) and look at the walls and note the many hand stencils believed to representing adults and children. The stencils are made by placing the hand on the rock, then blowing over it with pigment. When the hand is removed, a negative impression remains. Hand stencils were made for many reasons, but most commonly, they were used as a form of signature left by those who had rights to the area. There are also some line paintings which are often outlined with the finger or with a fibrous twig dipped in crushed ochre mixed with water. The age of the paintings is difficult to establish. Although research has shown Aboriginal culture to be at least 40,000 years old, archaeological excavations on the floor of Mulka's Cave suggest that use of this site was relatively recent. Stone artefacts and bone remains were found in association with old camp fires which have been dated to about 400 years old. Public toilets and rubbish bins can be found in the Humps car park. Entry fee is included in the Wave Rock Entry Pass. There