The Paddys River (or Cotter) Caves escaped the fate of the Limestone Plains complex by their relative isolation. They lie about twenty kilometres west of Canberra in a steep outcrop up to fifty metres above the south bank of the Paddys River. The limestone here is about one hundred metres long and forty metres thick, tilted to near vertical, and metamorphosed to marble by an intrusion of adamellite. The deposit has not been economically exploited despite favourable reporting of its suitability as a ‘handsome ornamental stone’ after successful polishing. Because of the metamorphic effects, fossils in the outcrop tend to be limited to crinoid stems.
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There are two access options:
- Come in on foot from the nearby Cotter Bend recreation area
Cross Paddys River and follow the track to the fire trail, then to the path that leads up to the cave
- Drive in via the fire trail off Paddys River Road (referred to on some maps as BFG Road)
Bullen Track/Bullen Range Road has recently been gated so you will no longer be able to drive right up to the base of the trailhead - it is a 250 metre walk from the gate to the path that rises to the cave platform. The fire trail is dirt, and should not be attempted during or after heavy rain. A vehicle with higher than average undercar clearance may also be necessary after periods of rain (check conditions before you arrive)
Please be cautious around GZ, there is no need to go into the cave, off the platform or go over the cliff.
Congratulations! FTF goes to STORMCATCHERS!