State Coal Mine

The State Coal Mine, also known as the State Coal Mine Heritage Area, is a former 20th-century state-owned black coal mine located in Wonthaggi, Victoria, Australia. Operational from 1910 to 1968, it now functions as a state park and tourist attraction.

The mine's history dates back to its establishment in 1909 to supply coal for the Victorian Railways. The site features coal deposits over 150 million years old, with tunnels extending nearly 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles), forming an underground ring around Wonthaggi. Adjacent to the former railway line to Melbourne, the mine contributed significantly to the town's growth from a makeshift "Tent Town" into a thriving community.

Over its operational period, the mine produced almost 17 million tonnes of coal. At peak production in 1926, it yielded 2,435 long tons daily, with the Victorian Railways purchasing 90% of this output. Known for being one of Australia's largest and most dangerous collieries, production declined by the 1930s due to industrial actions and depleting coal seams. Despite these challenges, it continued operations until 1968 when steam locomotive usage was phased out.

Today, managed by Parks Victoria, the site offers guided underground tours, a museum, a gift shop, cafe, visitor information center, and more. These attractions provide an educational experience about coal mining in the 1900s. Following a $3 million upgrade in 2012, underground tours resumed after an eight-year hiatus to meet new safety standards.