This week, Roy was going through his photographs when he noticed a whole selection of photos which were taken of fences. He had completely forgotten about these fences, which he had so wanted to visit and been so impressed by. He had heard that in the Illawarra there are many dry stone fences, which are very important historically, and many of which are even listed as heritage items! He'd never seen a real old fashioned dry stone wall, only those fashionable modern garden features, and he was interested to see what they were like. He was most impressed. Many of them stretch for vast distances, and although they are very old, they have stood the test of time.
If you would like to visit the dry stone fences in the Illawarra, you will need to head towards Kiama and Berry. This is where many of the fences can be found. You will need to head off the main roads into the country areas too though. Roy found most of his fences on his way to Minnamurra Rainforest, but they are dotted all around the area. Just keep your eyes open. Remember though, that these fences are usually on private land, so you can't just wander in to have a look. You will need to find ones that are close to the road. Also remember that the fences are often still being used. Don't damage them!
Although dry stone walling is very fashionable in modern gardens, the techniques used in dry stone building go back thousands of years. Stone is one of the oldest building materials used by humans, and it was used in most ancient societies to build structures which they wanted to last. Dry stone building is not only used to build walls though. The ancient Egyptians used dry stone techniques to build the amazing Pyramids, and in Peru, dry stone techniques were used to build many temples. The technique was also used to build houses, canals, even grave structures, like cairns! In Australia, dry stone walling is also an old technique, seeming to date back as far as the convict times. They are found in areas in Western Victoria, Tasmania and NSW. The Illawarra is one area in NSW where they can be found, used to create field boundaries to keep cattle in.
So, why are dry stone walls built? Dry stone walls actually have many advantages, even over a traditional mortared or cemented wall. They rely on the skill of the builder in fitting the pieces of stone together, and if the builder does a good job, the fence is very strong. Often, the wall tapers in towards the top slightly which works to interlock the stones even more tightly together and provides even more strength. The pieces of stone interlock together and there is no mortar to be worn away by the weather. Often, they are also much longer lasting. In fact, dry stone walls are even slightly flexible and can withstand an earthquake!
