Abandoned mine hazards assessed in Zeehan

ZEEHAN, TASMANIA — MRT Field Officers have conducted targeted risk assessments on abandoned mine sites in the Zeehan region following hazard alerts from local authorities during October 2025.

The inspections focused on legacy mining features — specifically historical shafts and adits — that pose potential risks to public safety. The assessments were part of MRT’s structured, risk-based approach, which includes desktop assessment of historical mine mapping, field evaluations and aerial drone surveys.

^{Legacy shaft site, Eureka mine, West Coast, Tasmania.}

The first site examined was the Silver Queen Extended Shaft, a 20 m vertical opening dating back to the late 1800s. Once part of the Silver Queen mine, and later incorporated into the Argonaut Shaft 2 workings, the shaft is located near public amenities including a golf course and roadway.

The second site, Eureka Mine, lies northeast of Zeehan and was active during the silver and lead boom of the 1890s. Drone photogrammetry revealed 11 distinct shafts and two adits across the site, underscoring the extent of legacy features still present in the region.

Drone Technology Enhancing Safety

MRT’s expanding drone program has proven instrumental in surveying hazardous terrain. The technology offers:

• Safer inspections by reducing physical exposure
• Faster coverage of large areas
• High-resolution imagery aligned with historical data

Immediate Safety Measures Planned

In response to the findings, MRT will implement short-term safety measures including signage and exclusion measures. The agency will work with local authorities and contractors to facilitate material procurement and labour for these interventions.

Updates will be provided through MRT’s newsletters and annual reporting.

Strategic Approach to Mine Remediation

The Zeehan assessments highlight the importance of prioritising remediation efforts based on risk. MRT is developing a centralised database and new assessment tools to support statewide evaluations of legacy mine features on Crown land.

^{Arial photogrammetry of the historical Eureka mining lease area noting shaft and adit locations, October 2025.}

The findings from the Silver Queen and Eureka sites illustrate the tangible risks posed by abandoned mines and the value of proactive assessment and mitigation. MRT will work with local authorities providing advice and facilitation of mitigation activities. These efforts are critical to safeguarding local communities and preserving Tasmania’s mining heritage responsibly.

^{High resolution photogrammetry depicting mine features identified using arial drone, Eureka mine site, October 2025.}