Ruqayyah Snyder
Quicksand, a substance often dramatised in films, is a colloid consisting of fine granular material (such as sand, silt or clay) and water. It is a real phenomenon and can be found in many places across Australia, including Tasmania's west coast between Pieman Heads and Arthur River. Quicksand typically occurs near natural springs and riverbanks, at beaches during low tide, and in rivers with sandy bottoms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Density | 2 grams per cubic centimetre or 2 kg/L |
| Human body density | 1 gram per cubic centimetre, 0.9 kg/L for tissue, 1.1 kg/L for bones |
| Human body floatability | Floats better in quicksand than in water |
| Found in Australia | Yes |
| Locations in Australia | Tasmania's west coast, Fraser Island, Blue Mountains, creeks, rivers, beaches at low tide, riverbanks, rivers with sandy bottoms |
| How to escape | Slow movement of the legs, rotation of the body to float in the supine position |
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Tasmania's west coast
This region is also known for its rich history, including stories of convict courage and boom-and-bust mining fortunes. There are even real-life ghost towns to explore, such as Lake Margaret, a hydropower ghost town, and Zeehan, aka Silver City, with its pioneering history and heritage streetscape.
For those seeking adventure, the west coast offers a range of activities such as white-water rafting on the infamous Franklin River, cruising down the majestic Gordon River, and hiking through ancient rainforests. The West Coast Wilderness Railway is also a great option for those who want to explore the forested former mining country.
One notable feature of Tasmania's west coast is the presence of quicksand, particularly between Pieman Heads and Arthur River. This area is known for its dangerous quicksand, so it is important to be cautious when exploring the region. Overall, Tasmania's west coast offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and history that is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.
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Fraser Island
Quicksand, or sinking sand, is a colloid of fine granular material, typically sand or silt, and water. It forms when saturated loose sand is suddenly agitated, causing the water within it to become trapped and creating a liquefied soil that cannot bear weight. This liquefaction results in a sudden decrease in viscosity, allowing objects or people stepping on it to sink.
When visiting Fraser Island, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and to take the necessary precautions. This includes educating oneself on quicksand safety, such as understanding that panic and rapid movement can cause one to sink further. If one does find themselves in quicksand, it is crucial to remain calm and attempt to rotate the legs slowly to reintroduce water between the sand and the legs, allowing for gradual extraction.
Despite the dangers of quicksand, Fraser Island remains a popular destination for travellers seeking natural beauty and adventure. By being vigilant and informed, visitors can minimise the risks associated with quicksand and safely enjoy the island's unique offerings.
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Blue Mountains
Quicksand, or sinking sand, is a colloid consisting of fine granular material (such as sand, silt or clay) and water. It is not as dangerous as it is often depicted in films, but it can be fatal if you fall into it and are unable to free yourself before the tide comes in.
In Australia, quicksand can be found in many places and doesn't need saltwater to form. It is primarily found where creeks and rivers flow into the sea, on the beach at low tide, along riverbanks, or in rivers with sandy bottoms.
One notorious area for quicksand is Tasmania's west coast between Pieman Heads and Arthur River. There are also reports of quicksand in the Royal National Park at Big Marley, in the Cooloola National Park between the Noosa River and the sea, and in the flat part of Explorer Creek between Lake Explorer and where the creek starts to flow downhill over rocks.
The Blue Mountains, a rugged region in New South Wales, Australia, is another area where quicksand has been known to occur. The Blue Mountains are known for their dramatic cliffs, eucalyptus forests, and waterfalls. While the mountains are a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities, it is important to be aware of the potential presence of quicksand, especially when exploring creeks and rivers.
If you encounter quicksand in the Blue Mountains or elsewhere, it is important to remain calm and avoid panicked movements, as this can cause you to sink further. To escape, try to move your legs slowly and rotate your body to float in the supine position (lying horizontally with your face and torso facing up). While it may seem daunting, it is important to remember that it is impossible for a human to sink entirely into quicksand due to the higher density of the fluid.
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Tarkine Trails
One of the highlights of the Tarkine Trails is the Pieman River cruise, where you'll be surrounded by ancient forests and mirror-like reflections as the river winds through the rainforest. This river is also a great spot to keep an eye out for native wildlife, including the elusive Tasmanian Devil. The cruise is followed by a walk along the Tarkine Coast Track, which boasts one of the world's most spectacular stretches of coastline, with South America being the nearest land across the sea.
For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Savage River Walk offers untouched wilderness, ancient forests, and the sound of native birdsong. The trail winds through towering trees and moss-covered undergrowth, providing a serene and immersive experience. The Tarkine Mountains Walk is another challenging yet rewarding option, with steep inclines, rocks, and fallen trees to navigate. As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of untamed forests, sweeping valleys, and distant mountain ranges.
The Tarkine region is also home to the Philosopher's Falls, a stunning rainforest walk that takes you through mossy myrtle forests to a viewing platform overlooking the cascading falls. The trail is rich in history, with remnants of an old hydroelectric powerhouse, and offers the chance to spot vibrant fungi, towering tree ferns, and platypuses in the creek below.
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Australian beaches
Australia's beaches are renowned for their beauty, but they can also be home to a hidden danger: quicksand. While it may not be as prevalent as it is portrayed in films, quicksand can indeed be found on Australian beaches and has been reported by beachgoers and adventurers alike.
Quicksand is a colloid formed when sand becomes saturated with water or air, creating a liquefied soil that loses strength and cannot support weight. It is often found near natural springs and riverbanks, as well as on beaches at low tide. In Australia, quicksand has been reported in various locations, including the west coast of Tasmania, Fraser Island, and the Blue Mountains. It is typically found where creeks and rivers flow into the sea, along riverbanks, or in rivers with sandy bottoms.
The density of quicksand is about 2 grams per litre, while the human body has a density of around 0.9-1.1 grams per litre. This means that it is impossible for a person to sink entirely into quicksand, as their body will always float. However, quicksand can still be dangerous, especially if the tide is coming in and the person becomes immobilised. It is important to remain calm and avoid panicked movements, as this can cause a person to sink further.
If you find yourself stuck in quicksand, slow and controlled movements are key. Rotate your legs in small, slow movements to reintroduce water between the sand and your legs, and try to float into a supine position (lying horizontally with your face and torso facing up). It is also important to try to remain calm and conserve your energy until help arrives.
While quicksand may not be as common or as deadly as it is portrayed in popular culture, it is important to be aware of its presence in certain Australian beach areas. By understanding the characteristics of quicksand and knowing how to escape it, beachgoers can minimise the potential dangers and continue to enjoy Australia's stunning beaches.
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Frequently asked questions
Quicksand can be found in many places across Australia, and it doesn't need saltwater to form. It is primarily found where creeks and rivers flow into the sea, on the beach at low tide, along riverbanks, or in rivers with sandy bottoms. A notorious area is Tasmania's west coast between Pieman Heads and Arthur River.
Quicksand is a colloid consisting of fine granular material (such as sand, silt, or clay) and water. It forms in saturated loose sand when the sand is suddenly agitated. When water in the sand cannot escape, it creates a liquefied soil that loses strength and cannot support weight.
It is important to stay calm and not panic. Move your legs slowly to reintroduce water between the sand and your legs, and rotate your body so you can float in the supine position.
