"The gate hours are as follows:
- Between May and September, the gates will be locked daily from 5:00 pm to 7:00 am.
- From October to April, the gates will be locked between 6:00 pm and 7:00 am.
However, please note that pedestrian access is available at all times.
Welcome to Sublime Point Lookout, an enchanting site where nature's geological symphony unfolds along the sweeping escarpment. Prepare to embark on an immersive Earthcache adventure, as we explore the intricate formations shaped by the relentless forces of erosion and deposition at Sublime Point Lookout.
The base sandstone at Sublime Point Lookout has a rich geological history, dating back millions of years. The foundation of this sandstone can be traced to a time when the region was covered by ancient seas or shallow marine environments. Sediments, primarily composed of sand grains, accumulated and compacted over time, eventually forming the dense and durable sandstone we observe today.
Geologists often categorize this sandstone as a specific type, such as quartz sandstone, based on the predominant minerals present. The formation process involved the lithification of loose sediment into solid rock, a gradual transformation that occurred under the immense pressure of overlying sediments.
Lifting or Erosion of the Sandstone:
Sublime Point Lookout's dramatic escarpment is not a static feature but a dynamic result of geological processes. The elevation we witness today is not solely a consequence of uplift; rather, it is a combination of both uplifting and erosional forces.
Uplifting events, possibly tectonic in nature, elevated the region, exposing the underlying rock layers to the forces of erosion. Over time, wind and water played significant roles in sculpting the landscape. The once flat base of sandstone experienced differential erosion, where softer layers were worn away more quickly than harder layers, leading to the creation of cliffs, valleys, and other distinct features.
Erosion Processes and Landscape Formation:
Erosion at Sublime Point Lookout is a multi-faceted process involving various agents such as wind, water, and weathering. Wind-driven abrasion, carrying sand and other particles, has polished and shaped the exposed surfaces of the sandstone, contributing to the smooth undulating patterns.
Water, in the form of rainfall and surface runoff, has played a crucial role in carving out the intricate details of the escarpment. Over time, water has exploited natural fractures and weaknesses in the rock, creating channels and valleys. The continuous dance of these erosional forces has revealed the underlying geological layers, exposing the diverse textures and patterns we can now observe.
Evolution of the Landscape:
The current form of Sublime Point Lookout is a testament to the ongoing interplay between uplift, erosion, and weathering. The layers of sandstone tell a story of changing environmental conditions, climatic shifts, and the enduring impact of geological processes. As visitors explore the site, they are witnessing a snapshot of Earth's dynamic history etched into the very fabric of the rocks.
In summary, Sublime Point Lookout's geological features, including the base sandstone, have evolved over millions of years through the intricate processes of sedimentation, lithification, uplift, and erosion. The resulting landscape is a masterpiece shaped by the collaborative forces of nature, offering a glimpse into the geological timeline of the region.
Additional Information
The 500-metre-high Illawarra Escarpment provides a dramatic backdrop to the city of Wollongong and spans 200 million years of geological history. This escarpment, with its towering presence, is a remarkable testament to the enduring forces that have shaped the region over millennia. Notably, the Illawarra Escarpment is currently recognized as a 'Scenic Landscape of State-wide Significance' on the Register of the National Trust of Australia, underscoring its importance in preserving and celebrating the geological heritage of the area.
Earthcache Logging:
Question 1: At Waypoint 1 Sublime Point Lookout, identify specific geological features shaped by erosion. Describe in detail the patterns or textures you observe in the rocks.
Question 2: At Waypoint 2 Reflect on the geological processes that have played a pivotal role in the formation of the escarpment rocks. How has erosion sculpted the landscape, creating the unique rock formations you observe?
Task: include a photo of yourself or an item with your goecaching name on it at the lookout in your log. connecting your experience to the ancient narrative written in the rocks.
Logging Information: Feel free to log your find promptly to maintain your TBs and Stats, but kindly send your comprehensive answers via email or GC Messenger within 10 to 14 days. Failure to comply may result in the removal of your log