Significant repairs for historic site

The historically significant Number 20 Mine Shaft site, located on Bass Highway just west of Wonthaggi will undergo some much needed repairs this year.

With works expected to begin in late January, the upgrades will take around four months to complete.

Bass Coast Shire Council has obtained all of the necessary permit approvals from Heritage Victoria to carry out these much needed works.

As part of the project, major repairs will be carried out on the fan housing structure at the site and will include brickwork repairs, rust treatment to reinforcement, rendering of external walls, rebuilding of failed concrete areas and treatment and painting of the steel fan housing.

The Number 20 Mine Shaft site commemorates the miners who were killed in two separate underground explosions, which occurred on 20 February, 1931 and on 15 February, 1937.

The 1931 explosion occurred during the first year of operation and resulted in the deaths of four men underground. The 1937 shaft explosion was the worst accident in the mine’s history, with 13 men dying underground.

These works may present an inconvenience to the community, and Council appreciates patience during this time. The contractor will work with property and service managers to minimise disruptions during construction.

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