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Article: The mystery of the Namban Caves. (Australia).(location of caves being sought after entrances sealed in early 20th century)
- Article from:
- Quadrant
- Article date:
- May 1, 2002
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2002 Quadrant Magazine Company, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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THERE IS EVIDENCE that some of the most spectacular caves in the world are within a couple of hours' drive of Perth, lost and forgotten for more than ninety years. As well as containing natural formations of extraordinary beauty, they are reported to be rich in fossils and high-grade phosphate deposits.
The caves were explored by candlelight in 1908 by a party including the then West Australian Minister for Agriculture, James Mitchell, later the state's premier and governor. Other members of the party included the Under-Secretary of he Agriculture Department, A. Despeissis, J. Gardiner and press representatives. The caves were apparently discovered by a team ...