Enhanced experience and protection for Arkaroo Rock in the Flinders Ranges
Located within the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, the Arkaroo Rock is an important cultural site for the Adnyamathanha People and the public is invited to share this special place.
A new interpretive screen showcasing the Akurra serpents is among the improvements to Arkaroo Rock which will enhance visitor experiences and help protect the more than 6000-year-old rock paintings.
Arkaroo Rock is an important cultural site for the Adnyamathanha People (meaning hills or rock people) in the Flinders Ranges, and it provides one of the finest examples of Adnyamathanha rock art.
Arkaroo Rock (Akurra Adnya), located within the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, is accessible via a walking trail.
Upgrades, which have transformed the viewing experience for future visitors and continue to protect the site, include:
- A new screen with interpretive elements showcasing the Akurra serpents.
- Seating and space to view and contemplate.
- Refurbishments along the trail and improvements to the trail itself.
The three-kilometre loop trail leads to a rock shelter containing ochre and charcoal images that depict aspects of the Yura Muda (Dreaming) of the Adnyamathanha People and their spiritual and cultural understanding of Ikara (Wilpena Pound).
As part of the upgrade, the rock art has been carefully cleaned by an approved conservator to remove a build-up of dust. Adnyamathanha monitors observed all
ground-disturbing construction works at the site.
The previous barrier and viewing facilities, installed in the 1980s, deteriorated and the upgraded barrier will improve public safety and better present this outstanding example of rock art.
Upgrades to the walking trail entry – including a refurbished car park, new toilet, picnic tables and interpretive signage – were completed in 2021.
Charlie Jackson, member Ikara-Flinders Ranges Co-Management Board, invited visitors to marvel at the important cultural site.
"The Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park is co-managed by the Government of South Australia and the Adnyamathanha People, ensuring shared responsibility for the park’s management and protection of its cultural heritage," Mr Jackson said.
"The Ikara-Flinders Ranges Co-Management Board has worked closely with all stakeholders at Arkaroo Rock to deliver an upgrade that conserves and showcases the cultural heritage and significance of the site, while giving visitors a unique and meaningful experience of connections to Country.
"The Board looks forward to welcoming visitors to respectfully enjoy the Arkaroo Rock paintings, walking trails, and places of reflection."
