Forest Creek Historic Gold Diggings
Forest Creek Historic Gold Diggings is a mining site in Castlemaine showing remnants of shafts, old machinery, and altered landscapes from the 1800s. The area covers two former mining zones called White Hill and Red Hill, connected by walking paths, with visible evidence of hand digging, puddling, sluicing techniques, and a restored pump engine that powered water operations.
Gold mining began in 1852 when Mount Alexander discoveries attracted thousands of people from around the world. White Hill became active first in March 1852, followed soon after by Red Hill, where miners dug extensive shafts seeking rich gravel deposits underground.
The creek and surrounding landscape shaped how miners lived and worked together across different backgrounds. The visible remains of individual mining plots, marked by shafts and terraces, show how people from Britain, Europe, and China all adapted their methods and shared techniques on the same hillsides.
The site features a short walking loop with information signs at various points and fenced viewing areas around old shafts. Wear sturdy footwear, bring plenty of water, and dress for changing weather since the area offers limited shade and can be windy.
Visitors can engage with a mystery game called Whatever Happened to Dundee Jock while exploring the grounds. Additionally, visitors can try panning for gold at the dam picnic area or purchase a panning kit from the local Market Centre to experience what historical miners did.
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