As Australians, we're no strangers to the unique and sometimes puzzling array of road signs that dot our highways and byways. From kangaroo crossings to sudden flood warnings, these signs are as much a part of our landscape as the red dirt of the Outback or the lush greenery of the Daintree. But there's one sign that has even the most seasoned Aussie drivers scratching their heads in confusion.


It's a sign that thousands of us drive past every day, particularly those traversing the vast expanse of the Northern Territory's Stuart Highway. Yet, despite its frequent appearance, very few know what it actually means. The sign in question? A seemingly simple depiction of a hand.


Recently, an Australian driver's curiosity about this mysterious sign reached a peak. Turning to the collective wisdom of Reddit, the driver posted a photograph of the sign, hoping to crowdsource an answer. The image showed a hand, and the guesses as to its meaning were as varied as they were incorrect. One traveller thought it signalled a place to wash hands, while another believed it indicated a window washing station. Both were wide of the mark.

The truth behind the sign is a testament to Australia's rich cultural heritage. This sign, often accompanied by a larger rest area marker, is an indicator of Aboriginal artwork in the vicinity. It's a symbol that's used nationally, particularly in national parks, to denote the presence of Indigenous attractions such as rock art or other significant Aboriginal sites.

The revelation of the sign's meaning sparked a range of reactions online. Some users shared their amusement at their own misconceptions, with one woman joking about the sign warning tourists against touching the hot bitumen, and another quipping about an impending swarm of ants. A third humorously suggested it was a warning for 'jazz hands' ahead.

Others expressed their surprise at never having noticed the sign before, with one person admitting their mind went to a children's craft area, and another confessing they thought it was simply a case of vandalism. The sign's actual purpose was a delightful discovery for many, with one commenter even likening their initial impression to the iconic 'car scene in the Titanic'.


Interestingly, even artificial intelligence seemed to be at a loss when it came to deciphering the sign's meaning. A Redditor shared an incorrect explanation from ChatGPT, which suggested the sign indicated a hand signal rest area, symbolising a 'stop' or 'pause' action for drivers to rest and avoid fatigue—a common cause of road accidents.

The Department for Infrastructure and Transport (South Australia) has clarified the sign's meaning in their 'Road Sign Guidelines' issued in 28 March 2023, confirming that it indeed signifies 'Aboriginal Attractions'. This is a reminder of the importance of such signs in not only guiding us on our journeys but also in preserving and acknowledging the cultural significance of the lands we travel through.

So, the next time you're on the road and you spot the hand sign, take a moment to appreciate the hidden message it carries. It's a signpost to Australia's ancient history, a history that's alive, well, and waiting to be explored just off the beaten path.

We at the Seniors Discount Club encourage you to share your experiences with road signs that have stumped you or taught you something new about our great country. Have you come across this sign or any other unusual road signs during your travels? Let us know in the comments below, and let's unravel the mysteries of the road together!