Attractions – Natural

Organ Pipes National Park

Calder Hwy, Keilor North, Victoria, 30
Website: www.parkweb.vic.gov.au

A set of basalt columns as straight and regular as organ pipes is the central feature of this 121 ha park in a deep gorge in the bare Keilor plains. There are other rock phenomena and the park is worth visiting for its native vegetation and variety of birds.

The 'organ pipes' were formed about a million years ago when a massive lava flow, about 70 metres thick, spread over the plains from nearby volcanic hills. A surface crust formed and the lava beneath cooled very slowly and contracted. Vertical surface cracks developed, and as the lava continued to harden, the cracks lengthened until the basaltic mass was divided into columns. Over the next million years, Jackson’s Creek cut a deep valley through the thick basalt layer to expose the formation known as 'the organ pipes'.

The number and variety of native birds recorded has increased greatly since the park was established. Some mammals, such as possums, wallabies and echidnas, can be seen too. Reptiles are abundant. Sugar Gliders were released early in 1989 and other species will be reintroduced as native vegetation develops and the habitat becomes suitable.

For more information on Organ Pipes National Park, including activities and facilities, please click here.

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