The Granites are a popular picnic spot and are situated east of Mt Magnet on the right hand side 4 kilometres or so along the Cue road. Paintings on the rocks at Walganna rocks have been dated at 9,000 years old, making them of a similar age to cave paintings in Europe. The caves formed in the soft granite have fantastically sculptured surfaces formed by the small curved quartz veins in the granite. Several families of the Barimaia tribe still live in the Mt Magnet area. There is also a “Gnamma” hole in this area known to a few local people, this being a traditional native well covered by a stone. Their old carvings and paintings can be seen at several sites at The Granites.
For at least 20,000 years prior to settlement the Aborigines considered the Mount Magnet region their home. The Granites is a place of strong cultural significance to the Badimia tribe. Their old carvings and paintings can be seen at several sites at The Granites. Paintings on the rocks at Walganna Rocks have been dated at 9,000 years old, making them of a similar age to cave paintings in Europe. There is also a “Gnamma” hole in this area known to a few local people, this being a traditional native well covered by a stone. Ceremonial and burial sites are also located within The Granites area. Visitors and residents are asked to respect the cultural significance of the land and sites. A beautiful place to explore and picnic, especially at sunset!