Gubur Dhaura Heritage Park

Gubur Dhaura Heritage Park is a six-hectare cultural and landscape site on Diane Barwick Street in Franklin, Gungahlin. Its elevated position provides broad views across the Gungahlin basin towards the surrounding mountains and ranges, making it a useful stop for a walk, a picnic or a quiet look across Canberra.

The park’s name comes from the Ngunnawal name for ochre ground. Ngunnawal people historically invited other tribal groups to the site to collect ochre for ceremonies, trade and other purposes. Local Aboriginal people have contributed to the site’s design and artworks, which use colours reflecting the ochres and help interpret the layers of its history. The park’s creation also preserved a place of Aboriginal cultural significance from suburban development.

The site’s story includes later European interest in its geology. Iron ore, gold and kaolin, or pipeclay, were found here; kaolin was used for whitewashing houses and by the Canberra Brickworks. Visitors can explore the walking track, take in the lookout and use the picnic tables. Dogs are permitted on leads. Gubur Dhaura suits visitors interested in Ngunnawal culture, Canberra’s local history and open landscapes, as well as walkers looking for a heritage stop in northern Canberra. It is open daily, with access from Diane Barwick Street.