LAKES COAST VISITOR GUIDE | PAGE 13 WONTHAGGI Journey back in time at Wonthaggi’s historic State Coal Mine The State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi gives visitors of all ages the chance to travel back in time to a real former coal mine. The only historic coal mine experience in the southern hemisphere, this unique attraction includes the opportunity to explore an underground mine shaft, see scores of fascinating coal-mining artefacts and learn about the tough working conditions of the site's former coal miners. A rich history Operating from 1909 until 1968, the State Coal Mine produced almost 17 million tonnes of coal for Victoria's industries and railways. And, if it weren't for the State Coal Mine, the town of Wonthaggi might never have existed. Discover the past With an informative visitor centre and film theatrette, an old steam locomotive, interactive displays, souvenir shop and café, it is a fun and educational family day out, with free entry to all above-ground facilities and attractions. Daily guided underground walking tours of the coal mine (paid bookings required) provide a fascinating and exciting insight into the working life of the coal miners who worked there. Explore above ground An excellent place to start your visit to the State Coal Mine is at the site's Visitor Centre, where you can watch a short film on the history of Wonthaggi and the mine. Other stops include a visit to an old miner's cottage, where you can imagine what life was like for the families of the miners. Animals large and small played a vital role in coal mining, and you can gain an insight into how these creatures were used, and even get the opportunity to whistle along with the resident canaries, and say hello to the cheeky 'pit ponies'. You can learn more about the mining days in the site's museum, and reflect on the State Coal Mine's dark days in the under-manager's office, where tales of disaster reveal the remarkable resilience of the Wonthaggi community. Another attraction is the mine's winder house (a structure that houses the hoist used to raise and lower materials and personnel in a mine shaft). Here you can also learn about the history of the Wonthaggi CFA, while enjoying a panoramic view across the site and surrounding areas. If you feel like a snack, drink or memento of your visit, you can pick up refreshments and souvenirs from the State Coal Mine's café and gift shop, and there are also public barbecues and a large picnic area for those who wish to stay a little longer. Key info The State Coal Mine is located at at 19-37 Garden Street, Wonthaggi. Entry to all above-ground facilities and attractions is free. Most above-ground attractions are wheelchair friendly, and dogs are welcome on a leash in outdoor areas. To find out more – or book an underground mine tour online – go to parks.vic.gov.au and search for State Coal Mine. At the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi, visitors of all ages can take a guided underground tour of an old coal mine. Photo: State Coal Mine Wonthaggi State Coal Mine Discover the history of Wonthaggi and what life was like working in a coal mine in the 1900s Mine tours run daily at 11.30am and 2pm Free Entry to above ground attractions | Open daily from 10am - 4pm 19-37 Garden St Wonthaggi | (03) 8427 2118 | bookings.parks.vic.gov.au/state-coal-mine
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