Added: 10/24/2006 |
Gammon Ranges NP InformationThe Gammon Ranges are part of the Flinders Ranges National Park system. This park is adjacent to Arkaroola Sanctuary, which is just northeast of Gammon Ranges. These ranges are in what is considered what contains the most rugged landscape of South Australia.
For a long time, the area surrounding the Gammon Mountain Ranges of the park of the same name (Gammon) was used for pastoral land. However, this land was not very accessible so mostly goats and bush walkers grazed in those lands.
One of the most controversial sections of the Gammon Ranges NP is the Weetootla Gorge. This land formation is made almost entirely of magnesite. BHP Billiton, one of the world’s largest mining companies had its eye on this Gorge for quite awhile, and so has another mining company. However, the Australian Government has prohibited mining in this area.
Gammon Ranges NP is located in a very remote area, and is thought of as an ideal place for adventure hikers, and the like. The Copley-Arkaroola dirt road passes through Italowie Gap at the southern edge of Gammon Ranges park. From this spot, a one-day walk can be made to reach Mount McKinlay.
Another track is perfect for 4WD off road vehicles. This road wraps around Mount Mc Taggart. From this point, bushwalkers can climb Mount John Roberts, which is a bluff of the Blue Range. On the northern side of Gammon Ranges National Park is located another 4WD track, which takes vehicle drivers to the Yankaninna pastoral station.
Those who want to visit the Yankaninna pastoral station area must either climb over the Yankaninna range or they must walk enter from the Arcoona Bluff. The Arcoona Bluff is located at the Northwestern most corner of the mountain ranges. This is the only way to access the interior of the park.
Those who visit the Gammon Ranges and surrounding areas will need to know where the water supply is. Water tanks are located at Grindels Hut, Italowie Gap, and Arcoona Bluff. There are also several waterholes in this area. However, sometimes these water holes will dry up. Visitors may be advised to bring their own water just in case.
Some speculation and study exists about the origin of the Gammon Ranges name. One of the suggestions made by Warren Bonython is as follows: The word “gammon” means “hoax” in some cases. This would pertain to the thick scrub on the ranges. One of those is called Humbug Scrub, which is located near Adelaide. Another suggestion is that Gammon Hill represents the shape of bacon, with “bacon” being another meaning of the word gammon.
The Gammon Ranges are very representative of the Aboriginal culture, and the name of the Gammons in the Aboriginal language is “Arkaroo”, which is the name of a legendary snake. The Arkaroo is said to have been the one who consumed all of the area’s water supply, and then later the saltiness gave the Arkaroo an upset stomach.
At one point the Arkaroo with the stomach ache crawled into the deep parts of the Ranges, and this is where some believe his stomach continues to rumble even today. However, other explanations are offered for the booming noises which some may attribute to the Arkaroo legend.
The loud noises heard in the Gammon Ranges today most likely either come from wind whistling through the narrow gorges, or the sound comes from large rock falls. Further studies are being made on the mystery of these loud sounds, as well as other studies within the Gammon Ranges.
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