This interesting and colourful phenomenon was exposed by early gold mining activities.
The McIvor gold rush began in April 1853 and attracted thousands of prospectors. They swarmed throughout the area and quickly exhausted gold in the shallow, conglomerate- free grounds.
In later years, intensive mining was limited to deep leads as water shortage in the hotter months prevented worthwhile ‘surfacing’ operations. Sluicing work was carried on until the early 1880’s and it was in this period that work in the in Pink Cliffs area revealed these colourful ‘hills’
Visitors will note as the wander through the spectacular mini gorges a wide variety of small stones throughout the strata, particularly in the dark brown gravel cliffs. Of interest too, are the many pieces of smooth ironstone which have a distinctive volcanic appearance. The colourful cliffs are of a fine clay, which powders to an almost talcum like texture.
We ask that you keep to the tracks and not damage the fragile cliffs in the surrounding area.