Tarragal Caves

Tarragal Caves, located near Tarragal and Cape Bridgewater in Victoria, are a network of limestone caves and rockshelters overlooking Bridgewater Lakes.

These caves were identified as important Aboriginal camping places and were excavated in the late 1970s, revealing stratified deposits over 11,300 years old.

The cave openings form galleries with clear views of the surrounding landscape and lakes. They are accessible via Bridgewater Lakes Road and a walking track.

One of the caves extends 400 meters underground and has a sinkhole opening to the surface, believed by some Aborigines to be a dwelling place of a demon. Colonial administrator Charles La Trobe explored the caves in 1845 and 1846, describing them in detail and noting the superstitious beliefs of the "natives."

Pollen analysis of cave sediments has helped reconstruct the Pleistocene climate and environment of the region, as well as the resources available to Aborigines. An early etching inspired by La Trobe's record depicts an Aboriginal family at the cave entrance.

Visitors to Tarragal Caves can explore the historical and geological features of this unique cave network.