Melbourne's Backyard: Unearthing Millions of Years of History

Victoria's coastlines, particularly areas like Jan Juc and Beaumaris near Melbourne, serve as rich repositories of fossils dating back millions of years. These sites offer glimpses into pivotal evolutionary periods, with discoveries including tiny-toothed baleen whales, primitive dolphins, and large prehistoric penguins. The powerful Southern Ocean continually reshapes these shores, revealing fragments of whale bone and shark teeth, some related to the ancestor of the formidable megalodon.

Beyond the coast, Victoria's geological diversity provides exposure to nearly the entire geological timescale. For example, fossilized claw prints approximately 354 million years old, representing the oldest evidence of amniotes, were found near Mansfield. Earlier discoveries include some of Australia's oldest land plants and ancient marine organisms. Even dinosaur fossils, such as those found on the Bass Coast between San Remo and Inverloch, are accessible, offering insights into a polar environment from 125 million years ago.

Fossil hunting in Victoria is an activity accessible to both novices and experts. While tools are generally prohibited without a permit, keen observers can find specimens on beaches or during bushwalks. Experts emphasize the importance of photographing finds, noting GPS locations, and contacting institutions like Museums Victoria or Found a Fossil. These discoveries contribute significantly to our understanding of Earth's history and evolution, enriching both scientific knowledge and public appreciation for the natural world.