Little Rocky Creek: Axe Grinding Site

Highlights

This First Nations stone grinding site highlights the ingenuity of the Gubbi Gubbi people in creating the tools they needed to live and hunt.

Before you view the historical site, take time to the read the information board and understand the significant cultural importance of the area.

From here follow the path along a short gravel track and section of stairs to a wooden viewing platform. Here you will be able to view the grooves that are well defined and worn to the shape of the stone axes.

The sandstone and water flow made for a perfect place for grinding tools such as axe heads, spearheads, and cutting stones, with the harder stone used for the implement being brought in from other Glasshouse Mountain locations. As you explore this pretty little creek, have a look around – you are likely to see more grooves and evidence of past life.

As you walk through the forest, keep an eye out for the nesting boxes in the trees for birds and the goannas roaming about.

Afterwards

There is another First Nations cultural site not far away - Beerwah State Forest Bora Ring. An ancient meeting site used for gatherings, dancing and ceremonies. The bora ring (or Durn) is well maintained and easy to access, suitable for all agers and abilities (accessed via Moffat Road, east off of Steve Irwin Way.) The Mount Beerwah Picnic Area provides a great view of the local area and has more information about local First Nations heritage.

The Rocky Creek Scout Campsite is open to the public and a good base to stay while discovering the Glass House Mountains area.

How to get there

To the starting point: On Steve Irwin Way, turn off into Landsborough (Railway Street, Maleny St) and at the roundabout turn left into Gympie Street South. Approximately 1.5 km down this road (heading south) it turns into Old Gympie Road. There you will see a brown sign indicating the aboriginal site 100 metres ahead, just around the corner. Park the car here. If you miss the entry to the small car park, you can park in front of the Rocky Creek Scout campsite that is just beyond. It is only a short walk to the creek.

To the end point: This is the same as your starting point.

About this place

Suitable for walking

Walking track grade: Grade 2; A formed track with gentle hills and the occasional step. Clearly signposted, and no walking experience needed.

Graded on the Queensland Parks walking track scale. Walk with care(opens in a new tab)

Managed by

Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service

To report damage, a hazard or another problem with the trail:

Contact Queensland Parks(opens in a new tab)

Safety

Hazards on this trail

Path is gravel, though is firmly packed - nothing to worry about. Rocks at creek could be slippery when wet.

Check park alerts before you go

This trail is managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. Check their park alerts for closures and track conditions. Park alerts in the Sunshine Coast region(opens in a new tab)

In an emergency, call 000. Always adventure safely!

Always follow any local signage, it contains key information and conditions can change at any time.
Use the trails with consideration for your abilities, be prepared for the adventure ahead:
- Be aware of the weather conditions, found here: Bureau of Meteorology — Queensland(opens in a new tab)
- Always wear appropriate clothing, focus on good footwear.
- Always bring more water than you think you will need.
- Be Sun Safe!
- Always let someone know where you are going that isn't going with you.
Just getting started try this site for good useful information: Trail Hiking Australia — hike safety(opens in a new tab)
Sunshine Coast Council does its best to keep this information current, but things change, so be aware that a trail may not be as listed here.