Not a sound, not a ripple,

as we whisper our way

between sandstone walls —

ten metres high, they say.

Then it gets narrow,

two metres in places,

and on the stone,

are they fossil traces?

It’s a tight squeeze,

you can touch the rock —

but make sure it’s not hiding

a freshwater croc!

Yabbies and turtles,

and a big goanna,

you’ll see them all 

in the Gulf Savannah.

Gorgeous! by James Aitchison

Teacher’s note: The Cobbold Gorge was formed 10,000 years ago.  Several springs feed into the gorge, keeping the water level constant.

Far North Queensland’s Cobbold Gorge. Photo by Ginette Pestana