Demystification of the Mersey Bluff markings

Abstract

The Mersey Bluff markings have been accepted as petroglyphs attributed to the Tasmanian aborigines despite well presented, concise published evidence to the contrarty. The site is now a tourist attraction. Historical circumstances and adequate natural explanation for the markings are largely responsible for this state of affairs. Recent geological findings indicate that the dolerite in which the markings occur, displays curviplanar and concentric jointing responsible for many features of the markings. Some characteristics of the markings are similar to those caused by plant exudates from roots or rhizomes which follow natural irregularities in the rocks.