Knob Reserve: A Cultural and Natural Sanctuary

Knob Reserve, situated 3km from Stratford on Brayakaulung Country, is a site of immense cultural and historical importance to the Gunaikurnai people. This 56-hectare reserve, jointly managed by the Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation and the Victorian Government, stands as a testament to the living culture of the Gunaikurnai people. For thousands of years, Knob Reserve served as a traditional gathering place for the five clans of the Gunaikurnai nation, who would travel for days to meet on common ground. These gatherings were occasions for feasting, sharing information, trading goods, and practicing corroborees and other cultural ceremonies. The reserve's location on a bluff above the Avon River (Dooyeedang) made it a strategic campsite, providing shelter, food, and water. The river itself was a major transport route, with bark canoes used for fishing and travel. Evidence of the reserve's rich history can be seen in the scar trees, where bark was removed for canoes, food bowls, shelters, and shields. Sandstone outcrops bear deep grooves where axe heads were sharpened over centuries. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the reserve became a place of refuge for Gunaikurnai people seeking to maintain connections with family during the mission era. In 2010, Knob Reserve was the site of the first ceremony to confer native title determination, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of Gunaikurnai rights. Today, visitors can explore the reserve via a 2.5km loop walk, taking in the scar trees, grinding stones, and a lookout platform with panoramic views. The reserve also offers picnic facilities, including barbecues, tables, and a playground, making it a popular destination for families and nature lovers.