Mount Wheeler facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Gawula
Mt Wheeler
Gawula Location in Australia
Highest point

Mount Wheeler, also known as Gawula, is a small mountain in Queensland, Australia. It sits between the towns of Rockhampton and Yeppoon. This mountain is a type of volcanic plug, which is a cool rock formation left over from an ancient volcano. Gawula has always been the traditional home of the Darumbal people, who are Indigenous Australians. In 2007, the mountain was officially given back to them under the Aboriginal Land Act.

History of Gawula Mountain

Gawula has a long and important history for the Darumbal people. It was a special meeting place for many Indigenous groups. They would gather here to trade tools and arrange marriages between families.

Sadly, there was a difficult time when early European settlers arrived. A conflict happened near Mount Wheeler, which led to the deaths of some Aboriginal people.

In 1868, gold was discovered on the mountain. At first, mining was successful. A report from 1887 even mentioned that one of Queensland's largest gold nuggets was found there! However, the gold quickly ran out, and mining stopped being profitable.

Later, in the 20th century, Mount Wheeler became a popular spot for its amazing views. People also used it as a recreation reserve for activities like bushwalking and mountain biking.

In 2007, a big change happened. The ownership of Gawula was given back to 25 trustees who represent the Darumbal people. This was the first time land in the Rockhampton area was returned under the Aboriginal Land Act (1991). This meant the Darumbal people, as the traditional owners, officially had their land back.

Naming the Mountain

Local historians say that Captain Cook named Gawula "Mount Cock’s Comb" in 1770. However, this story isn't supported by his own travel journals or other old records.

The mountain was later named Mount Wheeler. Some people thought it was named after Frederick Wheeler, an inspector with the Native Police. There were stories that he was involved in a terrible event where Aboriginal people were forced off cliffs. But historical records suggest the mountain was more likely named after John Wheeler. He was a Gold Commissioner who worked in the area during the 1860s.

Physical Features of Gawula

Gawula is a volcanic plug with very steep sides. It's similar to other mountains nearby, like Mount Jim Crow.

The western side of Gawula has large, tall cliffs. On the south-east side, there's a softer type of rock. This rock has formed many huge caves and overhangs. Mount Wheeler stands at about 365 metres (1,198 ft) high.

Images for kids

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  Gai-i at sunset