Скачать или смотреть From Stone to City: The Legacy of Mount Gibraltar Heritage Reserve’s Quarries

Join Jane Lemann OAM, long-time local resident and Mount Gibraltar’s dedicated guardian, for an in-depth journey through the geological, cultural, and industrial history of Mount Gibraltar Heritage Reserve, also known locally as "The Gib", standing between Bowral and Mittagong in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales.

In this comprehensive historical talk, Jane explores:

Geological Formation
Step back 300 million years to uncover the origins of the Sydney sandstone and the volcanic activity that formed the hard and unique Microsyenite rock of Mt Gibraltar.

The Rise of Quarrying
Learn about the development of the local quarrying industry from the 1880s through to the late 20th century, including the influential quarry operators like Chalker, Loveridge & Hudson, and the Amos Brothers. The trachyte extracted here was used in countless landmark constructions across Sydney, Canberra, and London.

Aboriginal and European History
Hear about the original Gundungurra custodians, later displacement, and the role of Aboriginal guides in early European exploration of the district. Discover how the mountain’s European name links back to the Rock of Gibraltar via colonial history.

A Legacy Set in Stone
From Queen Victoria Building, Garden Island, Commonwealth Bank, to Centennial Park, Mt Gibraltar trachyte has been used in curbs, war memorials, bridges, and lighthouses. Even the foundations of Australia House in London rest on stone from the Gib.

Preservation and Recognition
Jane shares stories about local activism to save Mt Gibraltar from renewed quarrying in the 1980s, its transformation into a reserve, and its national significance, including a boulder now featured in Canberra’s National Rock Garden.

Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Gundungurra people as traditional custodians of the land — past, present and future.

This talk is a must-watch for anyone interested in Australian geology, architecture, Aboriginal heritage, and local Southern Highlands history.

For further reading and resources visit the Wingecarribee Shire Council website.

Recorded in Moss Vale, Southern Highlands. 2025. Video and Editing: Gaye White