Gibraltar Falls facts for kids
The Gibraltar Falls are a beautiful waterfall in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), Australia. They are about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Canberra, the capital city. This waterfall is a 'cascade' type, meaning the water flows down a series of rocky steps. The water drops about 50 meters (164 feet) in total!
Quick facts for kids Gibraltar Falls |
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Gibraltar Falls
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 Location in Australian Capital Territory
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| Location | Namadgi National Park, Australian Capital Territory |
| Coordinates | 35°32′15″S 148°52′42″E / 35.53750°S 148.87833°E |
| Type | Cascade |
| Total height | 50 metres (160 ft) |
| Watercourse | Gibraltar Creek |
Contents
Where are the Falls?
Gibraltar Falls are located inside Namadgi National Park. You can find them close to Corin Road, within the Gibraltar Creek Pine Forest. There is a car park nearby for visitors. From the car park, a gravel path leads to a special lookout point. This is where you can get the best view of the falls!
There are also several walking trails around the falls. You can enjoy a picnic at the site, as there's a picnic shelter with a gas barbecue. Public toilets are also available for visitors.
Interesting Facts About the Falls
Even during dry periods, water still flows over Gibraltar Falls. This is because the area has a small but steady water supply.
In November 2000, three rare Glossy Black-Cockatoos were seen at the falls. These beautiful birds are not often found in the ACT region.
The falls were even featured in a painting! In 1966, artist John Perceval created an oil painting called Rescue at Gibraltar Falls. An architect from the Australian National University posed for the person in the painting. Long ago, people used to hike to the falls through the bush.
Plants and Animals at Gibraltar Falls
The area around Gibraltar Falls is home to some special plants and animals. You can find the rare Austral pillwort here. This is a type of fern with thin, thread-like leaves.
The vulnerable Alpine Redspot Dragonfly also lives near the falls. This means it's a species that needs protection to survive.
Gibraltar Falls / Woods Reserve Area
Gibraltar Falls is part of a larger area called the Gibraltar Falls / Woods Reserve Area. This important area is listed on the Register of the National Estate. It is also on the ACT National Heritage of Australia list. This means it's a place with special natural or cultural value. The area covers about 170 hectares (420 acres). It is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) northwest of Tharwa.
