A time traveller’s guide to forbidden places of awe and wonder in Australia

In this illustrated presentation, geologist and author Marc Hendrickx brings a historical perspective to recent closures of bushwalking and climbing sites in Australia, including the Grampians, Mount Arapiles, Ayers Rock and Mount Warning.

The closure of public access to landscapes of awe and wonder in Australia has been wracked with controversy. Summit access at Ayers Rock and Mount Warning has been banned without due acknowledgement of the wonderful history of climbing at both locations. This approach is also apparent in the bans on rock climbing at the Grampians and Mount Arapiles in western Victoria. This fascinating presentation uncovers lesser known histories, stories and narratives that reveal the complicated interplay of politics, power and fabrication behind decisions to lock Australians out of their cultural heritage. How may this "unearthed" history be used to reopen these places and ensure that other awe-inspiring places remain accessible to all of us?

The above three images have been kindly supplied by Marc Hendrickx who is responsible for the top and middle photos. 
(Top) The view from Ayers Rock summit in 2018.
(Middle) Marc and his daughters at the summit of Ayers Rock in June 2018.
(Above) A view from Mt Warning, November 2023. Photo credit: Alan Keen, Save Our Summits Association. 

Marc's presentation is organised by The English-Speaking Union (Victoria Branch) as a contribution to the Australian Heritage Festival and because we care about open access to Australia's cultural heritage.

The event is open to the public. There will be opportunity for discussion. A light supper will be served. 

Venue: ESU House, 1 Bank Street, Ascot Vale Vic 3032.

Please note that there are 27 steps up to the lecture venue, and no lift.

The event is free but seats are limited. RSVPs are therefore esssential, by 5 pm on Wednesday 30 April.
Please book your seat by completing this webform: https://esuvic.org.au/content/presentation-marc-hendrickx

Any questions? Please contact the ESU office via email: admin@esuvic.org.au or by phone: 0477 005 932.

This page was published on 8 February 2025.