It's one of the most incredible natural places in Australia - a cave network housing megafauna fossils that offer a unique window into our ancient past.

Thirty years ago, the Naracoorte Caves became South Australia's first World Heritage site. To celebrate the anniversary the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Naracoorte Lucindale Council are holding a free festival at the Naracoorte Caves National Park.

The event, to be held on Saturday 2 November, will be headlined by live music performances by local bands - including a special concert inside of Blanche Cave. Also on offer will be:

• Researchers and students from the University of Adelaide accompanying tour groups to provide expert insights into the history of the caves and some of the research conducted at the site.
• A run through the national park, which has been put together by local organiser Tower Trail Run. Several different length trails will be available, starting from 5km through to 42.2km.  (external site) (external site)
• Market stalls set up in parts of the park, selling local food, wine and crafts.
• A range of children’s activities including a performance by Professor Flint, the singing professor, who will perform his family friendly songs about palaeontology.

In 2023/24 more than 92,000 people visited the Naracoorte Caves which, along with the Riversleigh fossil site in far north-west Queensland, form the Australian Fossil Mammal Sites World Heritage Area (external site) (external site). Both sites were officially recognised in 1994 for their importance in telling the story of Australia’s unique animal heritage.

The caves have acted as pitfall traps and owl roosting sites, collecting animals for at least 500,000 years. They preserve the world’s most complete fossil record for this period of time, spanning several ice ages, the arrival of humans in the area and the extinction of Australia’s iconic megafauna roughly 60,000 years ago.

Naracoorte Caves Manager Thomas Shortt (pictured) said staff at the caves were excited to be able to enjoy the 30th anniversary with the community.

“The Naracoorte Caves is such a unique site because it allows us to better understand our environment and the changes that have occurred in our landscape over time, while also allowing the public to experience this first-hand," Mr Shortt said.

“It’s obviously not often that you get to celebrate significant anniversaries, and we really wanted to make sure we put on a great event.”

Naracoorte Lucindale Council Mayor Patrick Ross said the milestone anniversary would give the community the opportunity to celebrate the significance of the Naracoorte Caves, which residents were fortunate to have in their very own backyard.

“The caves allow us to step back in time, giving a fascinating and unique insight into Australia’s prehistoric past,” Mr Ross said.

“We look forward to everyone enjoying the fun and hospitality of the festival to celebrate 30 years since the Naracoorte Caves were recognised on the world stage.”

For more information on celebrations click here (external site).

This article was prepared by the Department for Environment and Water and is republished here with permission.