New Guinea II cave, Archaeological cave in Snowy River National Park, Victoria, Australia
New Guinea II is a limestone cave in Snowy River National Park featuring a rock shelter entrance bordered by large boulders and natural stone formations. A permanent stream flows through its main chamber, creating an active underground waterway system.
Archaeological excavations in the 1980s uncovered stone artifacts and evidence of human occupation dating back some 20,000 years. These discoveries demonstrate that this location served as a shelter for people across many millennia.
The cave belongs to traditional Gunaikurnai lands, specifically the Krowathunkooloong clan, and features Aboriginal hand marks pressed directly onto its walls.
Entry involves a steep descent through a narrow opening, and visitors should expect uneven ground and moisture from the underground stream system. Sturdy footwear and a flashlight are essential for safe navigation through the passages.
The walls display prehistoric Aboriginal markings arranged in regular patterns of circles and diagonal crosses, making this the only known Victorian site with such designs. These markings were made directly on the rock surface and remain visible to this day.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
