Lake Tali Karng
| Lake Tali Karng | |
|---|---|
Tali Karng
|
|
 Lake Tali Karng
Location in Victoria
|
|
| Location | Alpine region, Victoria |
| Coordinates | 37°32′35″S 146°47′47″E / 37.54306°S 146.79639°ECoordinates: 37°32′35″S 146°47′47″E / 37.54306°S 146.79639°E |
| Primary inflows |
|
| Primary outflows | underground to Wellington River |
| Basin countries | Australia |
| Surface area | 14 ha (35 acres) |
| Max. depth | 51 m (167 ft) |
Lake Tali Karng is a natural lake in the Alpine region of Victoria, in eastern Australia. At 14 hectares (35 acres) in area and 51 metres (167 ft) in depth, the lake is the only deep lake in Victoria. The lake was formed by a landslide 1,500 years ago and is the only lake in the Alpine region.
Unlike alpine lakes in the Snowy Mountains, Lake Tali Karng is the only permanent, deep, highland lake in Australia that is not of glacial or volcanic origin. The lake was formed by falling from the Sentinel, which is 700 metres (2,300 ft) above the valley. The landslide dammed the Wellington River with the area of the landslide now known as the Valley of Destruction. The lake has no stream outlet, and has never been known to overflow, the overflow seeping away through the Valley of Destruction. Two creeks feed the lake, Snowden Creek and Nigothoruk Creek. Nigothoruk Creek has three waterfalls, collectively called the Snowden Falls. There is no vegetation in the lake itself as the water is slightly acidic. Its maximum depth is 51 metres (167 ft), and due to the minimal sunlight falling upon it, together with the snow-melt which feeds it, it remains cold throughout the year.
Tali Karng lies in the traditional lands of the Gunai Kurnai tribe, who hold it as a sacred place. In keeping with their law, aboriginal people are forbidden to visit the lake. The Gunai Kurnai are, however, tolerant of non-indigenous people visiting Tali Karng provided they treat the area with respect. This includes requesting visitors not to camp at the lake. Visitors are asked to camp either above the lake at the southern end of the Wellington Plains or below the lake in the Valley of Destruction along the Wellington River.
The most popular camping area has traditionally been the western end of the lake, where there are large grassy areas. Camping is also possible at the eastern end, although this area is hard to access. Water from the lake must be boiled, although water coming from the side creeks is drinkable. Fires are not permitted near the lake so all campers must be equipped with a fuel stove.
Camping at the lake is now discouraged and alternative camping with basic facilities is available at Nyimba campsite, near the site of the former Riggall Hut at the southern end of the Wellington Plains. Campfires are allowed here and water is generally available from a nearby creek. There is also informal camping along the Wellington River below the lake. Permits are not required.
...
Wikipedia