The Great Dividing Range is one of the most iconic mountain ranges in the world. It runs parallel to the east coast of Australia, stretching from Victoria to far north Queensland. This magnificent range is often referred to as the backbone of Australia, and it’s easy to see why. With so many stunning mountain ranges nestled within its boundaries, it’s a sight to behold.
The Great Dividing Range has a total length of over 3,500 kilometers, which makes it one of the longest mountain ranges in the world. The range is made up of several different mountain ranges, including the Australian Alps, the Blue Mountains, the New England Range, and the McPherson Range. Each of these mountain ranges has its own unique features and characteristics that are sure to take your breath away. From snow-capped peaks to lush rainforests and stunning waterfalls, the Great Dividing Range has it all.
The Geology of the Great Dividing Range
The Great Dividing Range is a vast mountain range that spans from the northernmost reaches of Australia’s Queensland State to Victoria, covering a distance of approximately 3,500 kilometers. It is one of the most remarkable geological features on the Australian continent. The history and formation of this range tell a fascinating story about the evolution of the continent and the forces that shaped it over millions of years.
The Great Dividing Range was formed as a result of a collision between two tectonic plates, the Pacific Plate, and the Australian Plate, about 300 million years ago during the Paleozoic Era. As the two plates collided, the forces generated by the movement caused the Earth’s crust to thrust upward and form the mountain range. Over time, erosion and weathering processes have since shaped and transformed the range’s landscape.
- The range is composed predominantly of sedimentary rocks, including sandstone, shale, and mudstone.
- It contains several notable mountain peaks, with Mount Kosciuszko at an elevation of 2,228 meters being the highest.
- Glaciers that once existed in the range shaped its landscape and left behind evidence, including lakes and waterfalls.
The Great Dividing Range is also the source of several large river systems, including the Murray-Darling, which is the largest river system in Australia. These rivers have provided water to sustain human settlements, and many of Australia’s earliest industries, including farming, logging, and mining, were established in the mountains.
One of the most exciting things about the Great Dividing Range is its biodiversity. Due to its geographic isolation and varied topography, the range is home to many unique species of flora and fauna. The many protected areas along its route conserve these unique species and their habitats, making it a vital component of Australia’s ecological system.
Overall, the Great Dividing Range is a remarkable geological feature that continues to shape Australia’s landscape and has played an essential role in its history and development to become the country we know today.
The flora and fauna of the Great Dividing Range
The Great Dividing Range, also known as the Eastern Highlands, is a mountain range in eastern Australia that stretches more than 3,500 kilometers from Cape York Peninsula in the north to the eastern coast of Victoria in the south. This range is the third-longest land-based range in the world, after the Andes and the Rocky Mountains of North America.
Due to the Great Dividing Range’s vast length and variable climate, it boasts diverse flora and fauna. Here are some notable examples:
- Flora: The Great Dividing Range is home to over 10,000 plant species, many of which are found nowhere else on earth. This range includes eucalyptus forests, rainforests, heathlands, and alpine meadows. Some of the most recognizable flora include the Gymea Lily, Waratah, and the Snow Gum.
- Fauna: The Great Dividing Range is also known for its diverse wildlife, including over 400 bird species, numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. In the alpine regions, you can spot rare animals such as the Mountain Pygmy-possum, and the Leadbeater’s Possum. In the forests, you have the chance to see koalas, kangaroos, echidnas, and a variety of birdlife, including the rare Superb Lyrebird.
The Great Dividing Range’s unique landscape and biodiversity are due in part to its diverse range of habitats that occur throughout. The gradual shift from wet tropical rainforest in the north to cooler temperate rainforest and eucalypt forests in the south has led to the creation of multiple unique ecosystems. These ecosystems have led to a diversity of habitats, which support a range of unique and often endemic species.
| Species | Picture | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mammals |  |
The Great Dividing Range is home to dozens of mammalian species, including marsupials, rodents, bats, and monotremes such as the platypus. |
| Birds |  |
The Great Dividing Range is home to over 400 bird species, including the Superb Lyrebird, Wompoo Fruit-dove and the rare Regent Honeyeater. |
| Reptiles & Amphibians |  |
The range’s ecosystems support over 300 species of reptiles and amphibians, including lizards, geckos, snakes, frogs, and turtles. |
Overall, the Great Dividing Range’s rich biodiversity and unique habitats make it an important cultural and ecological resource for Australia. It is recognized as a globally significant biodiversity hotspot and a World Heritage site.
The Cultural Significance of the Great Dividing Range
As one of the most prominent geographical features of Australia, the Great Dividing Range has been an important landmark for Indigenous Australians for thousands of years. This 3,500-kilometer long mountain range runs parallel to the east coast of the country, separates the coastal areas from the inland and is an essential part of the Australian identity.
- Spiritual Significance: The Great Dividing Range holds significant cultural and spiritual significance for many Aboriginal communities. The mountain range is believed to be the home of ancestral spirits and creator beings, and it is considered a source of spiritual power, or “Dreaming.” Aboriginal cultures often use the landscape of the mountains to help structure their lives and communities. They also use the mountains to communicate with ancestral spirits.
- Importance in Traditional Medicine: The Great Dividing Range is an essential source of traditional medicine for Indigenous Australians. Many plant and animal species found in the mountain range are used extensively in traditional medicine practices.
- Historical Significance: The Great Dividing Range has played a significant role in Australian history. European explorers who arrived in Australia recognized the importance of the mountain range and used it as a guide while exploring the country. The Great Dividing Range has also been a barrier to early European settlers’ movement into the country’s interior, which led to the formation of distinct cultural identities.
Overall, the Great Dividing Range is not only a crucial geographical feature, but it is also a culturally significant part of Australia’s history and identity. It provides a deep connection to the country for many Aboriginal people and offers visitors a glimpse into the significance of the place on Australia’s culture and heritage.
In addition, the Great Dividing Range is an iconic destination for migrants who visit Australia. People travel from different parts of the world to immerse themselves in the region’s natural beauty and learn about its cultural significance. The Great Dividing Range’s cultural significance pervades throughout the entire country and is celebrated in art, music, literature, and film.
| Indigenous names for portions of The Great Dividing Range | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Darran Mountains | ‘the place of flying ants’ or ‘the place of figs’ |
| Barrington Tops | ‘the camping ground of the thunderbolt’ |
| Lerderderg | ‘place of the emu’s footprint’ |
| Warrumbungles | ‘crooked mountains: place of the rising sun’ |
These indigenous names are a testament to the mountain range’s significance and offer visitors a unique insight into the traditional cultures present here long before Europeans arrived.
The challenges of managing the Great Dividing Range
The Great Dividing Range is a massive mountain range that runs along the eastern coast of Australia, spanning over 3,500 kilometers. It poses a number of challenges for those who need to manage it, both from an environmental and practical standpoint.
- Environmental concerns: The Great Dividing Range is a hotspot for biodiversity, with a variety of unique plant and animal species. This makes it a priority for conservation efforts, but managing the impact of human activities on this delicate ecosystem is a constant challenge. Logging, mining, and urban development all have the potential to impact the range’s flora and fauna, and finding a balance between economic development and environmental protection is an ongoing struggle.
- Infrastructure: The Great Dividing Range is an imposing physical barrier, which means that any infrastructure, such as roads and railways, that needs to cross it must be constructed to withstand the mountainous terrain. This presents unique challenges when it comes to engineering and construction, requiring careful planning and execution to ensure that structures remain stable and safe over time.
- Fire management: The Great Dividing Range is prone to bushfires, which can be devastating for both the environment and nearby communities. Managing the risk of bushfires requires careful planning and coordination between government agencies, emergency services, and local communities, as well as investment in fire prevention measures such as controlled burns and firebreaks.
Overall, managing the Great Dividing Range requires a long-term vision and a commitment to balancing economic development with conservation efforts. By taking a proactive approach to preserving this unique ecosystem, while also ensuring that infrastructure and communities are protected, we can help to ensure that the Great Dividing Range remains a vital part of Australia’s landscape for generations to come.
The impact of climate change on the Great Dividing Range
The Great Dividing Range covers over 2,300 miles along the eastern coast of Australia and plays a significant role in supporting the country’s ecological and economic systems. However, due to climate change, this natural treasure is facing a range of environmental problems that threaten its biodiversity and sustainability.
- Temperature changes
- Extremes of weather conditions
- Warming Ocean waters
Rising temperatures are causing a range of problems across the Great Dividing Range. The warmer environment is affecting the plant species that call this region home, and many are becoming displaced or dying out due to the changing environment. A higher frequency of heatwaves is also accelerating the spread of wildfires, which have the potential to destroy landscapes and habitats.
The Range is experiencing severe weather due to the increase in weather extremes caused by climate change. Heavy rain and cyclonic weather events are causing severe flood damage, which has a significant economic impact in regions where agriculture is the primary industry.
Warming ocean waters are affecting the marine life that lives in and near the range. The acidity levels are impacting corals, and as a result, marine life is suffering. The Great Barrier Reef is located in this area and is one of the world’s essential marine treasures. As a result of climate change, the Great Barrier Reef is severely impacted by coral bleaching, which is destroying large areas of this extraordinary ecosystem.
| Environmental issue | Impact on the Great Dividing Range |
|---|---|
| Increased wildfire | Destroying habitats and biodiversity |
| Heavy rainfall and flooding | Cause damage to infrastructure and agriculture |
| Rising sea temperatures and acidity levels | Impact marine life and coral reefs |
Overall, climate change is having a significant and negative impact on the Great Dividing Range, and the ecosystem it supports. It is up to every individual to take action on climate change, which is vital to protect the future of this essential region and the planet.
The history of exploration and settlement along the Great Dividing Range
The Great Dividing Range is a vast mountain range that stretches over 3,500 kilometers along the eastern coast of Australia. It is one of the longest mountain ranges in the world and it has a significant impact on the geography, flora, and fauna of Australia. The range was formed more than 300 million years ago during the Paleozoic era. The Great Dividing Range has played a significant role in the history of exploration and settlement in Australia.
- Aboriginal occupation: The Great Dividing Range has been inhabited by Aboriginal people for thousands of years. The mountain range has great significance in the Aboriginal culture and is an important source of resources and spirituality.
- Early explorers: During the late 1700s and early 1800s, European explorers began to traverse the Great Dividing Range. The first successful crossing of the range was by Gregory Blaxland, William Lawson, and William Charles Wentworth in 1813. Their journey was significant because it opened up the fertile plains beyond the mountains for agriculture and settlement.
- Mining: The Great Dividing Range was a source of valuable minerals and resources, particularly gold and coal. The discovery of gold in Victoria in the 1850s led to a gold rush that attracted thousands of prospectors to the mountains.
Settlement in the Great Dividing Range was difficult due to the rugged terrain and harsh climate. However, it played an important role in shaping the history and culture of Australia. The following are some of the ways the Great Dividing Range influenced settlement in Australia:
- Agriculture: The fertile plains beyond the mountains were ideal for agriculture, and the range acted as a natural barrier protecting the farmland from severe weather and pests.
- Transportation: The Great Dividing Range presented a significant obstacle to transportation. However, it also provided an opportunity for the construction of railway lines and roads that connected the east coast of Australia.
- Tourism: The stunning natural beauty of the Great Dividing Range has made it a popular tourist destination. The range is home to many national parks and outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and skiing.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1813 | Blaxland, Lawson, and Wentworth cross the Great Dividing Range |
| 1851 | Gold discovered in Victoria |
| 1860 | Robert O’Hara Burke and William John Wills set out on an expedition to cross Australia. They begin their journey from Melbourne and head north, crossing the Great Dividing Range. |
The Great Dividing Range has played a critical role in the history and development of Australia. From Aboriginal occupation to early European exploration, the range has been a source of resources, transportation challenges, and natural beauty that continues to attract visitors from all over the world. Its enduring legacy continues to shape the culture and society of Australia today.
The Best Hikes and Outdoor Activities in the Great Dividing Range
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Great Dividing Range is an absolute haven. This massive mountain range stretches over 3,500 kilometers, covering much of the eastern coast of Australia. The Great Dividing Range is home to a vast array of activities, including hiking, skiing, rock climbing, camping, and much more. In this section, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best hikes and outdoor activities in the Great Dividing Range.
Hiking
- Mount Kosciuszko Summit Walk: At 2,228 meters, Mount Kosciuszko is the highest mountain in Australia. The summit walk takes around 6-8 hours to complete, with breathtaking views across New South Wales and Victoria.
- Barrington Tops National Park: Located in New South Wales, this park boasts over 200 kilometers of hiking trails through stunning rainforests, waterfalls, and mountain ridges.
- Grampians National Park: In Victoria, this park has over 160 kilometers of walking tracks with stunning views and spectacular rock formations.
Camping and Rock Climbing
Camping and rock climbing are also popular outdoor activities in the Great Dividing Range. Some popular campsites include:
- Barrington Tops National Park: There are several great campgrounds in the park, including Polblue Camping Area and Gummi Falls Campground.
- Mt. Arapiles-Tooan State Park: Situated in western Victoria, this park is an absolute paradise for rock climbers. The park has over 3,000 sports and traditional rock climbing routes that cater to climbers of every level.
- Bush camping: If you’re looking for a more primitive camping experience, there are plenty of opportunities to bush camp throughout the Great Dividing Range. Just make sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Skiing and Snowboarding
If you’re a fan of winter sports, then you’ll love the ski resorts located in the Great Dividing Range:
| Resort Name | Location | Total Runs |
|---|---|---|
| Thredbo Ski Resort | NSW | 53 |
| Mount Buller Ski Resort | Victoria | 22 |
| Perisher Ski Resort | NSW | 47 |
Overall, the Great Dividing Range offers a wealth of outdoor activities for those willing to explore. Whether you’re looking for challenging hikes, rock climbing, camping, skiing, or snowboarding, you’re sure to find something to suit your adventurous spirit.
What Ranges are Part of the Great Dividing Range?
1. What is the Great Dividing Range?
The Great Dividing Range is a chain of mountains that runs from the north to the south-eastern coast of Australia.
2. How long is the Great Dividing Range?
The Great Dividing Range is approximately 3,500 kilometers long, stretching from Cape York in the north to the Grampians in Victoria.
3. What ranges are included in the Great Dividing Range?
The Great Dividing Range includes many ranges, such as the Blue Mountains, New England Range, Snowy Mountains and Victorian Alps.
4. Which states does the Great Dividing Range run through?
The Great Dividing Range runs through four states in Australia: Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
5. What is the highest peak in the Great Dividing Range?
Mount Kosciuszko in New South Wales is the highest peak in the Great Dividing Range, standing at 2,228 meters above sea level.
6. What kind of activities can be done in the Great Dividing Range?
The Great Dividing Range offers various activities such as hiking, skiing, camping, horse riding, fishing, and sightseeing.
7. Is the Great Dividing Range a protected area?
There are several protected areas within the Great Dividing Range, including national parks and world heritage sites.
Closing Thoughts
We hope our article provided an informative overview of the ranges that are part of the Great Dividing Range. This vast mountain range attracts many tourists every year, with a myriad of outdoor activities to enjoy and stunning views to behold. Thank you for reading and we invite you to visit again later for more exciting content.