The Kiama Headland is composed of volcanic rock called latite. A volcanic extrusion, known as a dyke cuts through the latite. The dyke is composed of a softer rock called basalt. Over millions of years the softer basalt has eroded faster that the latite creating a tunnel under the headland collapsed creating the Kiama Blow Hole.

As each wave surges through the tunnel air is compressed in the rear chamber building tremendous pressure. As waves subside, pressure in the chamber releases forcing the trapped water up the blowhole with a loud 'whoomp'.

The Kiama Blowhole was formed from basalt lava flows approximately 260 million years ago¹². The blowhole is essentially a sea cavern beneath the rock. As ocean swells crash into the cavern, they compress the air inside, causing water to spurt through a gap in the rocks towards the sky¹³. Under certain sea conditions, the blowhole can spray water up to 25 metres (82 ft) in the air¹.

Historical Significance

The blowhole was first discovered by local Aboriginals who named it 'Khanterinte’¹. It was first written about by English explorer George Bass on December 6, 1797⁴¹. Bass had captained a crew of six and set out on an open whaleboat to explore the south coast of Australia. He noticed the blowhole after anchoring his boat in a sheltered bay¹.

The discovery of the Kiama Blowhole ushered in a wave of development for the region. Towering cedar forests were removed and basalt quarries were carved across the region to supply a growing nation⁴. Today, it is one of Kiama’s major tourist attractions and contributes significantly to the local economy¹.

The Kiama Blowhole is more than just a natural spectacle; it’s a testament to Australia’s rich history and geological diversity. Whether you’re standing perilously close to feel the spray or watching from a safe distance, the sight of water shooting high into the air accompanied by a thunderous sound is an experience you won’t forget.

 

@kieran.wicks

Experience the thunderous roar of the sea at the Kiama Blowhole, where nature puts on a spectacular show! #KiamaBlowhole #NaturalWonders #Australia #Travel #Adventure #Geology #Adayinthelifeofatouringmuso #KieranWicks #OneTownataTime #LivingArtLifestyle https://livingartlifestyle.com/blogs/one-town-at-a-time/kiama-blowhole-south-coast-nsw

♬ Forever and a Day by Kieran Wicks - Kieran Wicks

 

 

1. en.wikipedia.org2. geomaps.com.au3. australiatravelquestions.com4. kiama.com.au