The brooding beauty of Hanging Rock, a cluster of striking volcanic outcrops in Victoria's Macedon Ranges, inspired a novel and subsequent film, Picnic at Hanging Rock.
Now the rock, about 80km north of Melbourne, is at the centre of a battle between the local council, which has approved plans for a conference centre and 100-room hotel to be built there, and local residents, who fear the development will destroy its ambience.
A popular day trip destination - and picnic site - for city folk, Hanging Rock already has a cafe, car park and visitor centre, as well as a racecourse and sports facilities. It has hosted rock concerts by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Rod Stewart.
Yet those who climb the winding path to its summit experience a sense of isolation and serenity that locals fear will be lost if the development - which may include a restaurant, day spa and apartments - goes ahead.
Luke Spielvogel, who has collected more than 5000 signatures on a petition, says the designated site, known as the East Paddock, is "really the only unspoiled vista from Hanging Rock as it stands". The petition calls on Macedon Ranges Shire Council to reconsider its plans and consult residents before deciding on the rock's future.