Grenfell fossil site, paleontological site in New South Wales, Australia
Grenfell fossil site is a paleontological site in central west New South Wales containing remains from the late Devonian period, approximately 360 million years ago. The fossils, mostly consisting of fish bones found in Hunter Siltstone layers, include Sarcopterygians and armored fish species such as Bothriolepis and Groenlandaspis.
The site was discovered in the late 1970s and has been studied by experts from the Australian Museum ever since. It represents the youngest place in New South Wales where late Devonian fossils are found, showing that the region was once covered by water.
The site lies about 230 miles (370 kilometers) west of Sydney near the town of Grenfell, situated in hills with large rock formations. The location is accessible to visitors but requires respect for the natural features and adherence to local collecting guidelines.
The fossils are mostly disarticulated, meaning the bones are separated rather than connected as they were in life, making it easier for scientists to study individual parts. This arrangement also indicates the fossils were not transported far after the fish died, suggesting gentle water movement at the time of death.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
