Iconic site celebrated

Stawell resident Roy Trimble is passionate about the site, which is located on the corner of the Western Highway and London Road.

He holds many records and files detailing the long, rich history of the site.

“The wanton destruction of the Sisters Rocks at the hands of quarrymen and stonemasons began in 1866,” he said. 

“It was all in their quest for more fireproof materials that were needed for the rebuilding of business premises in Main Street, Stawell, after The Great Fire of Pleasant Creek.”

Mr Trimble said a subsequent plea from photographer Oliver G. Armstrong to the Shire of Stawell Council to end the destruction of the Sisters Rocks was met with little response.

A squatter and owner of Allanvale sheep station, Samuel J. Davidson, heard of Mr Armstrong’s plea for help.

He went on to apply for a licence to occupy the 10 acres of land encompassing the Sisters Rocks on January 30, 1867.

Mr Davidson was then granted the requested licence on July 2, 1867. 

Mr Trimble encouraged anyone in the vicinity to visit the Sisters Rocks and appreciate their history.

“Anybody near this unique, iconic place – considered by some to be the best known landmark between Melbourne and Adelaide – might take the time to visit the Sisters Rocks … to find out more about the legacy of Armstrong and Davidson to all Australians,” Mr Trimble said. 

Mr Trimble also appealed to the public to nominate an earlier instance of the Preservation of a natural feature in Australia by private citizens or public organisations.

He also appealed for members of the community to nominate any earlier citizens who could claim the title of Australia’s First Preservationists and Conservationists.

“Any claims would need to be supported by verifiable, primary source documentation – as is the case for the Sisters Rocks, Samuel Davidson and Oliver Armstrong,” Mr Trimble said. 

He can be contacted on 5356 6220.