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As featured in Caravan World issue 450, February 2008.
After a closure of six years, the Three Creeks Gold Mine at Bingara, north-eastern NSW, is open again to tourists. Operator Paul Myer has returned from a six-year stint as a mines exploration officer to re-open his tourist attraction.
For a fee, people are invited to pan for gold from the rich red dirt taken from Lady Morgan’s Reef. This particular area has been mined since the 1800s.
“In 1887, there were 30,000 men on this field,” says Paul.
Paul guarantees that every visitor who pans will find some gold, and Quartz crystals are also dominant here.
“Everyone is allowed to keep whatever they find. Of course if they find a big nugget, I just get out a hacksaw and we cut it in half!”, he jokes.
Paul has also developed, produced and patented a device called a Panner’s Mate, which visitors are welcome to try.
Paul and his partner Joy have set up an extensive display of gold, gems, crystals and rock minerals, mining artefacts and other historic items. There are also plenty of samples for sale.
There are four unpowered van sites and tent sites. There is also an onsite powered caravan that sleeps up to eight people. A community kitchen is accessible for all visitors, as well as an open fireplace for those late night conversations.
Three Creeks Gold Mine is 25km from Bingara on the Upper Bingara Road. The fee for people wishing to pan for gold, garnets or crystals is $25/$15 for adults/children aged 12 and under. If you only want to visit the mine, the fee is $15/$10.
For more information, phone Paul on (02) 6783 2224, or the Bingara Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6724 0066
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