Greenstones Axe Quarry

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE - GRC - HISTORIC PLACES DOCUMENTATION SHEET NO. 11a

The quarry, which consists of the main outcrops of greenstones (epidorite) and associated granite boulders, occur along the 60m contour of the valley of the Moorabool River. The quarry site is one of a group of such quarries found in Victoria's Cambrian greenstone belts. Information on distribution patterns, shows the development of models of stone axe exchange and further contributes to an under standing of past contact and social interaction between aboriginal groups in South Eastern Australia. These sited also provide information about the aboriginal lithic technology and stone exploitation techniques. Geelong is one of the few greenstone quarries for which there is specific documentation in ethnographic records.

RECOMMENDATIONS: PROTECTIVE MEASURES

Geelong Regional Commission Registers

Australian Heritage Commission Register of the National Estate

Historic Buildings Council Register

REFERENCES

McBride, I & Watchman, A (1976) - "The Distribution of Greenstones Axes in South Australia; A Preliminary Report" Mankind 10(3): 163-174.

McBride, I (1978) - "Will-Im EE Moor-Ring - Or Where Do Axes Come From?" Mankind, 11 (3), 354-82.

Mitchell, S. R. (1949) - Stone Age Craftsmen, Melbourne

Mitchell, S. R. (1961) - "Victorian Aboriginal Axe Stone", Victorian Naturalist, 78: 71-73.

Coulson, A (1930) - "On the Relationship of the Epidiorite and Granite at Barrabool Hills and Dog Rocks, Near Geelong". Proc.R.Soc.Vic. M.S. 42(2):99.

Group

Exploration, Survey and Events

Category

Blazed Tree