THE FUTURE of the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine looks assured given the continuing strong support shown by the Friends of the State Coal Mine.
It was standing room only when past and present members of Friends of the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine gathered with supporters and sponsors to celebrate the group’s fortieth anniversary.
A special ‘Oscar’ trophy was presented to the long-standing State Coal Mine Friends by Jordan Crugnale MP in tribute to the dedication and commitment of so many people to this much-loved, historic Wonthaggi treasure.
Hearing the stories and histories of the hardships faced by miners of the day is always a highlight of any visit to the State Coal Mine and the fortieth-anniversary celebrations did not disappoint.
The recollections of former mine workers who worked tirelessly to provide for their families provided compelling evidence of the hardships faced by mine workers over the fifty-nine years the mine operated from 1909 to 1968.
Former miner Reg Wilson recalled the days when Wonthaggi and its coal mine provided the principal heat source for the homes and industries of Victoria.
Bird cages built by the Friends of the State Coal Mine volunteers now remind visitors of the important role canaries played in detecting potential life-threatening fumes or explosive gases underground in the mine.
Walking tours are conducted daily by appointment with the Friends of the State Coal Mine and Parks Victoria.
Friends of the State Coal Mine also provide ongoing maintenance and improvements to the heritage-listed buildings and collected mining memorabilia.
The mine café provides wonderful service and excellent food from 10am to 4pm and the gift shop operates seven days a week run by volunteers.
The Miner’s Dispensary, first responders and other members of the community who have helped shape the Wonthaggi coal industry over the decades were all in attendance at the fortieth-anniversary festivities and shared in the cutting of an anniversary cake.
For more information on Friends of the State Coal Mine look for the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine on Facebook.
Membership subscriptions can be paid through a link on the Friends of the State Coal Mine Facebook page or in person at the State Coal Mine Gift Shop.
New members are always welcome.
