Gain an insight into the world of mining in Australia with an underground tour of the Hard Times Mine in Outback Mt Isa in Queensland. There is no better way to understand the trials and tribulations of miners than on a guided tour with an ex-miner. Listen to the fascinating stories of the good and hard times deep under the earth plus see how tunnels are formed and shaped below the surface. The Hard Mines Underground tour in Mt Isa also gives participants the opportunity to get up close to machinery and try their hand at the air-leg drill under expert guidance. The underground mine tour is recommended for all people 7 years and above and each person will be provided with safety equipment including overalls, hard hats and gumboots.
Very knowledgeable presentation from an old-time miner
The trip down into the mine was very real. We got to be hands-on with a drill to set a blast. We saw heavy equipment in operation and felt a simulated blasting of the rock wall. This mine is still in operation and pulling our mineral-rich ore and these rock samples were so heavy! Highly recommended!
Well worthwhile as it's educational, informative and an eye-opener for those that haven’t been involved with underground mining
Fabulous tour by Luke. Informative and amusing while providing an insight into mining underground. A hands-on tour starting with changing into miners' gear to give you some idea of what it’s like to be a miner underground. An amazing effort by to team to set up Hard Times mine to allow people a glimpse of a miner's life. The Cornish pasties are scrumptious. I highly recommend this tour.
Relaxed informative tour with a knowledgeable old miner.
Mt Isa Mines no longer permits tours of its mine so in the early 2000s $15 million was tipped into setting up this tourist experience. Sure you are only 15m below ground and not 2,000 but that is in itself comforting. Always felt completely safe and the aspects of wearing orange overalls, a hard hat and light and having a coffee break in the "crib" room added to the realism without turning the exercise into a theme park. Everyone gets to try drilling and the event ends with a simulated explosion and exit from the tunnels on the back of a ute. Good value at $85. Groups of around 20.