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After several months in development, we are now proud to announce that the Coalface Experience Audio Tour App is now feely available through the Apple App Store and Google Play store. The App is primarily designed to offer visitors to the Coalface Experience an opportunity to listen to stories about various displays in the museum via their smart phones. This technology replaces the rather outdated Dataton Pickup units previously used to deliver the audio experience.

The free App can also be used away from the Coalface Experience, and we encourage everyone to download the App to their phones to share with family and friends. You can find the app by heading to your phone’s app store and searching for the Coalface Experience, or by scanning the QR code below (or at the Workers Club).

The 5th of February, 2015 marks 25 years since Wharrier and Mr Ed, Australia’s last working pit ponies, were retired from No.2 Mine at Collinsville. A rich and unique history, the story of the miners of Collinsville and their pit ponies remains fresh in the memory of locals. As the town struggles with the slowing coal mining industry, does this rich history hold the key to the future, and reigniting our community spirit.

For more information, check out the Pit Pony webpage: www.pitponyexperience.com.au/celebrate

Today marks 60 years since the Collinsville Mine disaster that took the lives of seven men.On this day, each year, Collinsville pauses to mark the occasion, remembering all who have been killed in coal mines in Collinsville and across Australia. Guest speakers this year include Joann Miller, Member for Bundamba and coal miner’s daughter, and Wayne Hartley, Queensland Mines Rescue Service CEO.
You can download the program here: Memorial Day Program 2014

In 1971 the Collinsville Mines Rescue Team won the EK Healy Cup, and a spot on the cover of the Queensland Mining Journal. Team members in group photo: Back L-R: Greg Watson, Ron McKenna, Stephen Bullock. Front L-R: Jeff Williams, Presenter, Ken Robertson, Bill Barry, Ron Woolley.
The EK Healy Cup is still an important event on the QMRS calendar today.
Want to see more? Check out the interactive timeline at www.coalfaceexperience.com.au

Here are a couple of photos from the early days: one of the first cars used in the mine after opening in 1912, and an early view of Collinsville township.
Enjoy!

Did you know… Gold was discovered around the Collinsville district by Richard Daintree around the same time he examined the coal seams in the Bowen River area.
Mt Wyatt was the first official gold mine in the area, opening in January, 1867. In 1883 Sunbeam mine opened, producing gold and silver. Between the years of 1883 and 1934, Sunbeam produced 21 tonnes of silver.
Several other gold and mineral deposits are known around the district and there is still alluvial gold found there today. The old workings of the mines are still visible as you drive past.