In remote far-western Queensland lies an ancient gorge, scattered with rock carvings, that's rarely visited. Traditional owners fear it could fall victim to the world's insatiable appetite for critical minerals.

In the rocky outcrops of remote far-western Queensland, there’s an ancient gorge that’s rarely visited.

Wangkamadla woman Avelina Tarrago says the land is part of her identity.

There are currently two exploration permits at Pilungah Reserve for rare-earth minerals like copper, lead, zinc and lithium, which are used for renewable energy projects.

“We’re beholden to government to really make the final decision … but it would be an important step that we were included,” Ms Tarrago said.

There is currently only one special wildlife reserve in the state, the nearby Bush Heritage site Pullen Pullen, which was granted the status to protect the night parrot in 2020.

The Queensland Department of Environment said it was assessing four formal expressions of interests for the status and had started discussions with five other landholders.