HOUGHTONS FLAT GOLD DIVERSION TUNNEL

The Houghton's Flat Gold Diversion Tunnel is a diversion which was probably excavated in 1873 by the Nicholson River Sluicing Company. The tunnel was used to divert the waters of the Nicholson River in order to work ground 'hitherto inaccessible to the individual miner'.

How is it significant?

The Houghton's Flat Gold Diversion Tunnel is of historical, and scientific importance to the State of Victoria.

Why is it significant?

The Houghton's Flat Gold Diversion Tunnel is historically and scientifically important as a characteristic and well preserved example of an early form of gold mining. Gold mining sites are of crucial importance for the pivotal role they have played since 1851 in the development of Victoria. Water diversion and sluicing are important key ingredients in an understanding of gold mining technology as it was employed in mountainous country where water was plentiful and perennial.

Group

Mining and Mineral Processing

Category

Alluvial Workings