Strike gold with a Licensed Tour Operator

There’s no better way to step back in time and explore Victoria’s Gold Rush history by joining a Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operator and experiencing the thrill of gold panning and fossicking for yourself.

The Victorian Goldfields, which include areas like Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park, Warrandyte State Park and Beechworth Historic Park (among many others), are home to gold-rich creeks and dig sites that once bustled with hopeful prospectors.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, joining a licensed tour ensures you make the most of your time in these scenic and historically rich locations.

According to Leanne Kamp, owner of Gold and Relics Gold Prospecting Adventures, a Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operator, while the days of major discoveries may be in the past, there is still plenty of gold to be found in the Victorian Goldfields.

“We once had a teenager on one of our tours uncover a two-ounce gold nugget which was really exciting for everyone,” Leanne said.

“We run most of our one-day tours in Creswick Regional Park, where the guide will show people how to pan for gold and how to use the latest metal detectors.”

“We also teach people how to read the ground, as well as explain what this area would have been like back in gold rush-era. Some of the stories from that time are fascinating,” she said.

Photo: A tour group being taught how to pan for gold in a Victorian creek. Credit: Gold and Relics Gold Prospecting Adventures.

 

Why join a gold panning and fossicking Licensed Tour Operator?

Parks Victoria licenses over 400 tour operators across the state, which collectively offer more than 60 different types of nature based, educational and recreational activities to connect people with the environment and importantly, contribute to the visitor and broader economies. There are many Licensed Tour Operators that specialise in offering visitors gold panning and fossicking experiences.

Using an experienced Licensed Tour Operator, visitors will learn the different techniques of gold panning, where to look for deposits, and the best tools to use. Many operators also provide access to specialised equipment like metal detectors, making it easier to extract small gold flakes or even the occasional nugget.

By joining a Licensed Tour Operator, you can also be confident that your experience follows legal and environmental guidelines. Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operators are approved to operate in designated areas and follow best-practice methods to minimise impact on the environment. This includes respecting waterways, avoiding damage to vegetation, and ensuring that historic sites remain preserved for future generations.

One of the biggest advantages of joining a Licensed Tour Operator is the opportunity to learn from experienced guides. Many operators are passionate about Victoria’s gold history and have extensive knowledge of geology, local wildlife, and the techniques used by both historical and modern prospectors.

You’ll hear fascinating stories about the gold rush era, from the massive discoveries that sparked migration waves to the hardships faced by diggers in the 1850s. Some operators even bring along artefacts and period equipment to help bring history to life.

Licensed operators cater to different experience levels, from first-time prospectors to seasoned fossickers looking for new locations. Some also offer combined experiences, such as guided bushwalks, heritage site visits, and wildlife spotting, making for a well-rounded day out.

“Lots of people join a tour just to have a fun day out, so they bring their kids and grandkids and it’s fun for the whole family. The tour guides make it enjoyable for everyone and teach in a way that’s easy to understand,” Leanne said.

“Our customers get to enjoy a beautiful day out in the bush, while making some great memories, and maybe even find a bit of gold along the way – what’s not to love?”

Photo: A tour guide showing a group how to find gold using a metal detector. Credit: Gold and Relics Gold Prospecting Adventures.

 

Where to book your next golden experience?

There are several Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operators offering gold panning and fossicking experiences across the state. Whether you want a half-day session or a multi-day tour, there are options to suit different schedules and interests.

Click here to see the full list of Licensed Tour Operators.

Before heading out, check with the tour operator to find out if you require a Miner’s Right permit. Many tour operators include this in their packages or can assist you in obtaining one.

So, if you’re ready to try your luck and experience the excitement of Victoria’s goldfields, consider joining a Parks Victoria Licensed Tour Operator.

You never know - you might just strike it rich!