Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve is forty minutes from Canberra. It's in between the Tidbinbilla and Gibraltar Ranges. The valley has in indigenous and natural heritage. Tidbinbilla together with Namadgi National Park form the northern part of the Australian Alps.
The mountains that surround Tidbinbilla are a place of spiritual significance to Aboriginal people. The name Tidbinbilla is derived from the Aboriginal word, Jedbinbilla (meaning 'boys were made men). This area has the highest density of artefacts in the ACT. Evidence of Aboriginal occupation includes open artefact scatters and prehistoric rock shelters. The most important sites are:
1) The Birrigai Rock Shelter. Follow the Birrigai Time Trail which starts at the Visitor Centre. This rock shelter is the oldest Aboriginal site known in the ACT region and dates back to at least 21,000 years ago.
2) The Hanging Rock Shelter: follow the Hanging Rock Walking Trail. This shelter contains evidence of high occupation and was mostly used by large family groups or male hunting parties.
3)The Tidbinbilla Valley: this shows the 160 year European history of the area. Farmland, pioneers houses or remnants from activities of the early occupants are scattered throughout the valley. Explore these sites along the Birrigai Time Trail or on the Church Rock Heritage Loop.
Stop at the Visitor Centre for a great introduction to the reserve. They have up-to-date information about Ranger Guided Walks and Activities.There are also a hands-on displays such as the interactive computer program on Tidbinbilla's bird species, and there are live animal displays. The gift shop sells an interesting range of clothes, toys, books, cards and souvenirs. Coffee and light refreshments are also available.
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on Jan 30, 2005
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