During the mid eighteen hundreds Australia saw many gold strikes, some that turned to rushes and most of these are well documented and the stories associated with them are well known, places as wide spread as The western Australian fields, Ballarat, the central mountain region of NSW to the Palmer river in north QLD. There is however one area that experienced a major influx of Miners around 1858 that remains to this day virtually forgotten even though gold was mined here for fifty years. The northern region of NSW from Armidale to the QLD border was the setting for many fortunes won and lost. This tour covers in just two days a major slice of this region. Come with us and explore an area that once boasted at least five town ships. The population of these places now defunct was in the thousands.

Marvel at the tenacity and ingenuity of those early diggers and the people who kept them supplied and provided for their every need. You will wonder at the engineering that went into building and then maintaining the infamous mailman's track. See how a town built an elaborate water supply and visit an area seldom seen by others that represent an example of cathedral shaft diggings, something that was rare even for the period. We will receive expert guidance from two local residents with exceptional knowledge of this area and a willingness to share their passion with others. The over night camp site will be in the centre of an old mining town with plenty of time to explore at your leisure.

To access these areas we will take you via trails that provide magnificent views. On a clear day you can see north to Mt. Warning. Areas of sub tropical rainforest are traversed as we penetrate well into the rugged gorge country at the headwaters of the Timbarra and mighty Clarence rivers. This area is remote and a journey such as this should not be attempted alone. It is unusual to see another vehicle on these seldom used forest trails, so enjoy the security of being in a group with expert assistance on hand to negotiate those more difficult obstacles and provide all the essential back up. Much planning and reconnaissance has taken place to ensure your tour will take you through areas of great beauty as well as historical significance. Of course a 4WD trip would not be complete without a challenge or two and we guarantee not to disappoint!

Costs: $230 per vehicle (includes 2 persons). $50 per adult and $25 per child (under 14 yrs). This tour is semi-catered and includes all fees and permits.

Minimum numbers apply.

Tour Dates:
11/12 October, 2008
6/7 December, 2008

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