History of natural wonders

The Byard family at the entrance to Marakoopa Cave.
Photo supplied

For those who live in and around Deloraine, the caves of Mole Creek are part of the background of natural wonder that is the Meander Valley.

The caves have been attracting visitors since the 1800s and became a major attraction with commercial operations in the early 19th century.

Today, Marakoopa and King Solomon’s Caves attract over 50,000 visitors a year.

During the COVID-19 lock down, the guides at the Mole Creek caves have been engaged in maintenance of the cave precincts and also researching the history. The Byard family who discovered and guided in Marakoopa Cave from 1911 until the 1930s demonstrate the pioneering spirit that adapted from farming to tourism and often managed to do both.

King Solomon’s Cave was discovered by Alfred (Frederick) Francis Holmes and William Henry Pochin in 1906 but real tourism development was by Edward Charles James. With a high social profile, his flair for publicity left many references in contemporary newspapers but very little is known of Messrs Holmes and Pochin.

To help fill in the gaps the guides are seeking the aid of anyone who has information, family connections or photographs that feature the Byards, Holmes, Pochin or any early aspects of the caves.

Get in touch by ringing the caves office on 6363 5182 or emailing mccaves@parks.tas.gov.au. They would love to record stories and if possible, copy photos and ensure that these memories are not lost.