State Coal Mine

Take a journey back in time to the State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi. This unique attraction is the only historic coal mine experience in the southern hemisphere.

Operating from 1909 until 1968, the State Coal Mine produced almost 17 million tonnes of coal for Victoria’s industries and railways.

Entry is free to all aboveground attractions. Start your adventure in the Visitor’s Centre, watching a short film on the history of Wonthaggi and the State Coal Mine, before grabbing a map of the aboveground heritage trail.

Reminisce of times gone by in the old miner’s cottage and learn more about the mining days in the museum. Sing-along with the resident canaries or say ‘hello’ to the cheeky pit-ponies. Gain an insight into how creatures, both large and small, were vital to the running of the mine.

Reflect on the State Coal Mine’s dark days in the undermanager’s office, where tales of disaster show the remarkable resilience of the Wonthaggi community. Finish with a stroll up to the winder house. Learn about the history of the Wonthaggi CFA, whilst admiring the view of the State Coal Mine and surrounding areas.

Pair these fascinating aboveground attractions with a guided tour of the historic underground coal mine to complete your adventure. Fees apply. Allow 1-2 hours to explore the aboveground attractions and 1-1.5 hours for the guided underground tour.

Be sure to pop into the café on the way out for refreshments or pick up a unique souvenir in the gift shop. There are public BBQ’s and a sprawling picnic area for those whose wish to stay a little longer. Be sure to take the kids to the Fairy Garden behind the picnic area before heading home.

Most aboveground attractions are wheelchair friendly, and dogs are welcome on a leash in outdoor areas.

Underground Tours

Explore the network of underground tunnels and imagine them dusty and dim, filled with last century's hard-working men drilling and chipping for coal.

The mine remains just as it was in its working days. Tools and equipment are still in place, as if the miners have just walked away.

Seams of 130-million-year-old coal glisten under dim lighting, while empty skips stand idle to rust in the silent tunnels.

Kids will love adventuring underground, getting hands-on at the coal face. All underground tours are guided by Parks Victoria staff and volunteers who tell stories from mining days past and explain mining methods and social history. Many guides have personal connections to the mine.

All that's missing are the men and pit-ponies. But if you stand still you can almost hear the clatter of horse shoes on steel rails, rumbling skips and the tapping of pick on coal.

See the booking page for more information on tour times, participant requirements and to purchase tickets.