Mount Grenfell State Conservation Area

Mount Grenfell State Conservation Area (SCA) is a rugged patch of bushland with a rich Aboriginal history. Located in Outback NSW, between Cobar and Wilcannia, it is adjacent to a significant Aboriginal rock art site.

The typical outback landscape of red dirt and mallee shrubland is broken up by rocky ridges and ranges. There are 195 native animal species living in the SCA and surrounding protected areas, with 134 of those made up by an incredibly diverse bird population.

Aboriginal significance

Many of the plants found in the conservation area hold special significance for the traditional owners of this land — the Ngiyampaa Wangaaypuwan people. Sneezewood and emu bush are known for their medicinal properties while other plants have been used to make splints, string, rope, fishing line, boomerangs and ornaments.

Seeds harvested from the kurrajong tree, miljee bush, nardoo fern, among other plants, were once a popular food source. The grinding dishes used to extract flour from these seeds can still be spotted along Mumboana Creek, which runs through the conservation area.

The SCA sits beside Mount Grenfell Historic Site, home to a large protected rock art collection. Stop here to admire ochre paintings of human figures, animals, land, waterways and Dreaming stories and hand stencils outlined on the rock face.

Access

Mount Grenfell SCA is primarily protected for conservation purposes. You are welcome to access trails on foot, however there are no designated roads or visitor facilities within the SCA. The best way to see this area is by visiting the adjacent Mount Grenfell Historic Site.

Please note: The SCA is not wheelchair accessible, overnight stays are not permitted and there is no mobile reception in this area.