Just one part of an epic story
The Coal Mines Historic Site is part of the epic story of the European settlement of Australia.
The Pydairrerme people were the traditional owners of this land. Middens and other cultural sites from many thousands of years of occupation still remain in the area and we ask that visitors assist us in caring for them by not walking on them or picking up any associated material.
The Coal Mines formed part of the system of convict discipline and punishment on the Tasman Peninsula. During its busiest years almost 600 prisoners with their jailers and their families lived and worked at the Mines. While the underground workings are no longer accessible, you may visit the picturesque ruins of houses, barracks, offices and punishment cells.
As you explore this evocative unspoiled landscape, you may catch a faint echo of those long departed men toiling in the dark, and experience something of the isolation and hardship that they endured.
The Coal Mines Historic Site is open daily. No bookings are required and entry is free. Group guided tours are available by prior arrangement - please contact PAHSMA on 1800 659 101.
A couple enjoys the view at the Coal Mines Historic Site, near Port Arthur Tasmania. (Click for larger view)
Management
This important convict site is also managed by the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority (PAHSMA) and is another compelling chapter in the story of Tasmania’s convict history.
PAHSMA undertakes a range of activities to preseve this fragile and special place, including the conservation of landscape and buildings, archaeological surveys, tours and educational programs.
The Coal Mines Historic Site embodies a wide range of heritage values, full details of which are available from this website via the link below.
The Coal Mines is one chapter in the epic story of convicts and transportation in Tasmania. (Click for larger view)
Entry and facilities
The Coal Mines Historic Site is open daily. No bookings are required and entry is free. There are toilet facilities at the Site, but it is not staffed.
Disabled access
While the main settlement and Plunkett Point are accessible, the Inclinde Plane and the track up to the Main Shaft are not recommended for those with mobility issues.
Safety on site
The weather in Tasmania is changeable and there are no shelters at the Coal Mines. Be prepared with sun protection, warm clothing, a raincoat or umbrella. For your own safety, we ask you to stay on the paths. The ground is uneven in many places, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
Watch out for snakes in the summer months, The ruins are unstable and fragile, so please do not climb on them.
Facilities and precautions
- Toilets are availble at the main car park.
- There are picnic opportunities but no facilities; bring your own drinking water and all supplies.
- Please wear comfortable, sturdy footware, carry a jacket or raincoat and use sun protection.
- A 300 metre section of track is wheelchair accessible. The rest is a Level 2 walk.
- Deep shafts and building ruins. For safety, remain behind barriers and supervise children.
- No pets, metal detectors or firearms. Bicycles must keep to formed roads. Please assist with conservation by not disturbing any building remnants.