Dampness replaces the dry Queensland air and the darkness of the cave engulfs us. Only a few shafts of light from the topside world extend this far.
The cave is more than 20m across and nearly as high. Tree roots hang like the fingers of some prehistoric cave dweller and the darkness prompts imaginations further. A series of gasps from those around us creates a little movement in the still air.
Gradually our eyes become accustomed to the dark. Torches flash across the cave ceiling, their beams of light casting unworldly shadows. Lava stalactites and more tree roots hang from the ceiling.
“Look closely at the gaps between the lava stalactites,” our guide’s voice echoes from the darkness. His torch lights a patch above us, where several small dark shapes move. “Bats are hanging up there, waiting for night when they’ll fly out of the caves to feed.”
Imaginations picture giant bats the size of eagles, but these bats have bodies the size of mice! Flashes from cameras punctuate the darkness and shouts of delight echo around, accentuated by the cave’s acoustic qualities.
The cave we are in is a lava tube from an extinct volcano. We didn’t expect to find volcanoes in Queensland, let alone one as notable as this. These volcanic tunnels or lava tubes are recognised as unique and were protected in 1992 as the Undara Volcanic National Park.
