Possum Trapper Cave

Statement of Significance

The cave has historic significance as it references a period when a bounty was paid by governments in Western Australia for feral and other animals when they reached plague proportions. These animals included dingoes, wild dogs, possums and foxes. The local authority generally administered these bounty schemes. This encouraged men to invest in equipment and live in forest areas to make a living by killing this fauna. This cave was well placed for this purpose, being near the Mitchell River and commanding a good view of the surrounding countryside.
The cave also has research significance, as items of equipment used by possum hunters (both professional and amateur) were stored in the cave for later use. While there is no current evidence of this equipment, further archaeological research may well bring to light items used by the possum trappers.

Physical Description

Granite cave surrounded by relatively undisturbed forest.

History

Granite cave used by possum trappers in the 1950s and 1960s when bounties were paid for possum skins. The cave was used to store possum snares, camp ovens, pots and pans. Possum hunters also used the cave as shelter. Anecdotal oral history also states that it was used in the 1920s.

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update

Disclaimer

This information is provided voluntarily as a public service. The information provided is made available in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate. However, the information is provided solely on the basis that readers will be responsible for making their own assessment of the matters discussed herein and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.