Best of Bendigo
Central Deborah Gold Mine Bendigo: Underground Mine Tours and Gold Rush History
The Central Deborah Gold Mine on Violet Street in Bendigo is a former working gold mine that operated until 1954 and now operates as one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Underground mine tours descend via a mine cage to various levels, where guides explain mining techniques and the geology of the Bendigo goldfield, which was one of the richest in the world during the 1850s gold rush. Above ground, displays cover the history of the mine and the broader Bendigo goldfields story. The nearby Bendigo Talking Tram connects the mine to other heritage sites in the city. Entry to the mine carries a fee; the surface site is free to visit during opening hours.
The Daily Bendigo brief
Love Bendigo? Get the daily briefing, free.
- 1
Underground Mine Tours
Descend 61 metres underground into the Central Deborah mine for a guided tour of the real goldmining tunnels, equipment and the stories of Bendigo's mining era.
- 2
Shaft Experience (Adventure Mining)
An adrenalin mining experience letting visitors operate real underground mining equipment in a controlled environment within the mine.
- 3
Tram Ride to the Mine
Heritage trams run from Charing Cross in the CBD to the Central Deborah Mine, combine both attractions for a full heritage day.
- 4
Ghost Tour, The Night Shift
An evening ghost tour of the mine's deepest tunnels, with actors and interactive elements exploring Bendigo's mining fatalities and folklore.
- 5
Mining and Heritage Interpretation
Surface displays and historical interpretation at the mine's headframe, with free access to view the mine's exterior and the Bendigo goldfields timeline.
Missing from this guide?
Suggest a Bendigo business
Sponsored placements