Explore the Surface - Central Deborah Gold Mine
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Central Deborah Gold Mine Bendigo Poppet head and grounds

Explore the Surface

Dominated by a huge 22 metre high poppet head, the surface of the mine is a highlight in itself!
gold line

Immerse Yourself in Bendigo's Mining Heritage

Dominated by a towering 22-metre high poppet head, the surface of Central Deborah Gold Mine is an attraction in itself! The mine's surface is home to original buildings and equipment that played a crucial role in Central Deborah's mining days.

Explore Authentic Mining Buildings

Take a step back in time as you explore the historic Blacksmith's Shop, First Aid Room, and Carbide Lamp Room.

Witness the Power of the Engine Room

Be amazed by the Engine Room, which houses the Winder installed in 1945. It’s the only complete working example in Australia and is still used daily by our dedicated mine crew who meticulously maintain the underground workings.

Discover Bendigo's Mining Legacy

The surface also showcases buildings and plant equipment from other iconic mines in Bendigo, including Deborah Extended, South Deborah, North Deborah, and Monument Hill Mines.

Visit the Gold Museum

Don’t miss the “Hand of Faith” gold nugget replica at our interpretive museum. Weighing 27.2kg and found near Bendigo, the Hand of Faith is renowned as the largest gold nugget ever discovered with a metal detector. 

Strike Gold in the Panning Shed!

Experience the thrill of gold panning! At our Panning Shed, visitors of all ages can try their hand at panning for real gold. Who knows, you might just strike it rich!

Note:  Due to maintenance, at this time the Poppet Head and Trestleway are unable to be accessed. We apologise for any inconvenience. 

 

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FAQ

What are your operating hours?

9:30am - 4:30pm daily.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are highly recommended for all underground tours and are essential for groups of 10 or more.

Are there T&Cs for going underground?

Yes. To ensure your safety and maintain a positive experience all visitors descending underground need to wear flat enclosed footwear. It is a safety requirement that everyone who descends underground must wear a hard hat at all times. Headwear which obstructs the hard hat from being properly fitted cannot be worn under the hard hats. We have smaller hard hats available for children. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour time.

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How long should I allow?

Explore the Surface: Your ticket is valid all day. We recommend allowing 30-45 minutes to explore the surface. Mine Experience Tour: 75 minutes.

Are tours guided?

All underground tours are guided by one of our friendly, knowledgeable and expertly trained guides. Explore the Surface is a self-guided tour that you can complete at your leisure.  

What should I wear?

Flat enclosed footwear is essential. It is a safety requirement that everyone who descends underground must wear a hard hat at all times. Headwear which obstructs the hard hat from being properly fitted cannot be worn under the hard hats. We have smaller hard hats available for children. We recommend dressing for the temperature, which is an average of 14 degrees underground.

Is there an age limit on any of the tours?

Explore the Surface: There is no age limit.   Mine Experience Tour: 3 years of age and over. Everyone who descends underground must wear a hard hat at all times.

 

Please Note:

Winding Engine
Tour Duration:
Allow 30 minutes - 1 hour.
Access:
The surface is wheelchair accessible.
Cost:
Adult: $5.00
Child: FREE
Explore the Surface is included with the Underground Mine Experience Tour and Vintage Talking Tram Tour.
Tour Times:
Open daily from 9:30am - 4:30pm. 
Terms & Conditions
Before visiting, please read our Terms and Conditions HERE
Bookings: