Silver Queen Extended mine shaft closure

In June 2026, Mineral Resources Tasmania (MRT) completed works to close a shaft at the Silver Queen Extended mine near Zeehan, marking the final deliverable of the 2025-2026 works program funded under the Rehabilitation of Mining Lands Trust Fund (RTF).

This project began following notification from Parks and Wildlife Service (PWS) and the West Coast Council regarding an incident involving the retrieval of a dog from a legacy mine shaft.

MRT Rehabilitation Officers inspected the site in October 2025, confirming the presence of a 20-metre vertical shaft. Subsequent desktop review identified the shaft as part of the Silver Queen Extended Mine, later incorporated into the No. 2 Argent Mine workings, which were active during the late 1800s. With the hazardous condition confirmed, this shaft was prioritised for closure due to its potential risk to public safety.

^{The pre-remediated state of the shaft.}

MRT commissioned a targeted engineering solution involving the fabrication and installation of a galvanised steel-framed expanded mesh cap. The structure was securely installed over the shafts opening to prevent access by both people and wildlife, while still allowing for natural airflow and drainage.

All works were carried out using “leave no trace” principles, ensuring that there was minimal disturbance to the surrounding environment, to preserve the integrity of the site’s natural values.

^{The shaft successfully capped with heavy duty galvanised mesh.}

With construction now complete, MRT will undertake routine inspections to monitor the integrity of the structure and track the progress of vegetation establishment across the site over time. MRT will also continue to collaborate closely with the West Coast Council and other land management authorities to proactively address safety risks across the region.

The successful delivery of this project signals the completion of MRT’s 2025–26 works program, funded through the RTF, which supports the rehabilitation and management of abandoned mining lands across Tasmania.

The 2025-26 Annual Report for the Rehabilitation of Mining Lands Trust Fund has recently been published on the MRT website. This report details the outcomes and progress of remediation efforts funded through the RTF, and aims to ensure transparency, performance tracking and continuous improvement across MRT’s rehabilitation and management activities.