Warrigal Waterhole - Painted Rock

This waterhole is another Kalkadoon site. 8km East of Mount Isa on the Cloncurry road. It is definitely a 4WD track needing patience and good clearance. Since the recent rains the track has suffered some damage with wash outs in places. The old car left to rust stand testament to the harshness and limitations of access to the country.

I first saw this place last year on a late afternoon jaunt. The waterhole is a permanent source of water which stock and wildlife frequent. 

The waterhole from above

Interesting rock formations

Walls of the waterhole showing past water levels

I can understand the the value and significance of such a place to the local Aboriginal community when water is so scarce in this harsh land. 

The paintings and carvings are generally well preserved however some graffiti at the site is a definite disappointment. The initial works are obvious standing sentinel at the entrance to the waterhole. However after sitting in quiet contemplation the other works begin to become apparent.