What’s happening?
A new 288-hectare fossicking area has officially opened at Mount Morgan, Central Queensland, offering locals and visitors the chance to try their luck at striking gold. Established through a General Permission Area (GPA) on State land around Mount Morgan No 7 Dam, the site is now open just ahead of the ANZAC Day long weekend.
Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dale Last announced the project, stating it will significantly enhance Mount Morgan’s tourism offerings.
“Mount Morgan was founded as a gold mining town and was known as one of the richest mines in the world,” Minister Last said. “This fossicking area will welcome families and adventurers to dig in to Mount Morgan’s history in a hands-on and interactive way.”
Why it matters?
The fossicking area serves as a major boost for regional tourism, encouraging both local and interstate visitors to engage with Mount Morgan’s rich gold mining heritage.
Minister Last praised local efforts, saying, “I applaud the Rockhampton Regional Council and Advance Rockhampton for championing this exciting project for their community.”
Meanwhile, Member for Mirani Glen Kelly emphasised its role in promoting regional exploration.
“Fossicking is a great way to explore our own backyard and discover the rich history of this area,” Mr Kelly said. “This is an example of State and Local Government working together to create opportunities and boost tourism in regional Queensland.”
Local Impact
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams described the new fossicking area as a major win for the local economy.
“Through the establishment of this General Permission Area, we will see big, new tourism and visitation opportunities,” Councillor Williams said. “We know there’s a real market out there for recreational fossicking so this will help us attract new visitors to town and boost tourism across the entire region.”
Councillor Williams also confirmed ongoing work with stakeholders through the Advancing Mount Morgan strategy to enhance local offerings.
By the numbers:
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288 hectares: Size of the newly established fossicking area at Mount Morgan.
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One of the richest gold mines: Mount Morgan’s historic mining status now reinvigorated through the new recreational area.
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Opening on 22 April 2025: Timed to coincide with the ANZAC Day long weekend for maximum visitor draw.
Zoom In
Mount Morgan’s new fossicking site sits around the historic No 7 Dam, offering adventurers not only gold-searching opportunities but also a tangible connection to one of Queensland’s most iconic gold mining towns. Fossicking activities are expected to attract families, hobbyists, and even international tourists looking for a hands-on history experience.
Zoom Out
The fossicking area forms part of broader efforts to revitalise tourism across regional Queensland. By tapping into the growing interest in adventure and heritage tourism, Mount Morgan strengthens its profile while aligning with the state’s push to support local economies through innovative tourism strategies.
What to look for next?
Expect a surge in visitor numbers to Mount Morgan as the fossicking site gains popularity. Council and Advance Rockhampton will continue working with the local community under the Advancing Mount Morgan strategy to roll out additional tourism initiatives, ensuring the region’s history and future remain golden.
