“Ready to embark on an underground adventure? We are standing at the entrance of Labertouche Caves. This isn’t just any cave. It’s a unique formation in igneous rocks.
Labertouche Caves are located seven kilometers northeast of Labertouche village. The village got its name in the early 1880s. It was a compliment to Peter Labertouche. He was Commissioner of Railways and Roads from 1881 to 1884.
The cave itself is a stream passage cave. It developed in Tynong Granite. A tributary of Labertouche Creek flows through it. The water runs underground for 175 meters. The accessible section is a bit shorter. You enter through an old stream sink. It’s located above the active stream passages.
Inside Labertouche Caves, you will find a passage. It goes through a pile of granite corestones. You can also see exposures of in-situ granite. The stream flow is vigorous. It carries sand and gravel. Look closely at the boulder surfaces. You’ll see grooves and polish. This is from the abrasive action of the sediment.
There is a smaller cave 200 meters to the east. It’s on another tributary stream. But no accessible passage has been found there yet.
Labertouche Caves are nationally significant. There are only three known accessible cave passages in acid igneous rocks in Victoria. There are few other examples in Australia. Cave development in this rock type is rare. The exact origin of Labertouche Caves is unknown. This makes the site important for studying weathering and stream passage development.
Remember, enter Labertouche Caves only if you’re experienced. The hike to the caves is graded hard. It’s challenging and for experienced walkers only. Bushwalking experience is recommended. The tracks may be long, rough and very steep. Signage might be limited so a good sense of direction is beneficial.
Imagine crawling over car-sized boulders. Picture yourself making your way through dark passages. You negotiate fast-flowing rivers. You discover chasms and hidden chambers. Labertouche Caves offer a real adventure.
So, take a deep breath. Prepare to be amazed by the wonders hidden beneath our feet. Labertouche Caves await!”