History
Coal was first discovered at the Site in 1833 and a team of convict labourers was quickly dispatched to begin extracting it. The first shipment left the mine the following year, and the mine was in continuous use for the next 40 years, producing around 60 000 tonnes of coal over its life.
Management
This important convict site is also managed by the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority and is another compelling chapter in the story of Tasmania’s convict history.
The entrance to the Coal Mines Historic SiteHow to Get There
The Coal Mines Historic Site is 25 minutes’ drive from Port Arthur, near Saltwater River on the north western tip of the Tasman Peninsula.
From Hobart—Travel down the Arthur Highway to the Tasman Peninsula; turn right at Taranna onto the B37. At the Premaydena shop, turn right and take road C341 for approximately 13 kilometres/8 miles. The road is sealed up until the entrance to the Coal Mines Historic Site.
From Port Arthur—Travel north along the Arthur Highway to Taranna; turn left onto the B37, then continue as above. Alternatively, continue past Port Arthur to Nubeena and Premaydena, then turn left onto the C341 at the Premaydena shop and continue as above.
Experience
The Coal Mines Historic Site is a great place to discover on foot. Learn the history of this place as you walk the paths and tracks and around the Site and read the stories of some of some of the people who lived and worked here. Explore the settlement ruins which once included stone prisoners’ barracks and punishment cells, a chapel, bakehouse and store as well as quarters for the commanding officer, surgeon and soldiers.
A printed guide to the Coal Mines is available at the Port Arthur Historic Site Visitor Centre.
Walk options range from a few minutes to several hours. Visit the Short Walks website for more information.
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.
More Information
Visit the Tasmanian Parks and Wildlife Service website for more information on the Coal Mines Historic Site.