The town of Beaconsfield sits on the western bank of the Tamar River in the heart of the Tamar Valley Wine Region. Formerly one of Tasmania’s richest gold mining towns, at its peak there were 53 companies working the goldmines. Beaconsfield’s fortunes were obvious in the late 19th century, the town changed its name from Brandy Creek to Beaconsfield, the area’s population was booming, dance halls were a plenty, shops, hotels and halls were built, and the town was buzzing with excitement and activity.
In 1914 the gold mine was closed due to regular flooding of the shafts but re-opened in 1999 with mixed success and further exploration and developments in the years that followed until tragedy struck in 2006 when a small earthquake caused the mine to collapse trapping two miners and fatally injuring another. The ensuing rescue operation captivated the nation as emergency services worked day and night to free the miners who were trapped almost one kilometre beneath the ground. Visit the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre to see the very special and poignant Mine Rescue Exhibition and the many interactive displays that tell the history of Beaconsfield and the Tamar Valley.
Make the most of your visit and check out some other nearby attractions. Tasmania’s only perfumery, Lavender House, is just a 10minute drive from Beaconsfield, and being situated in the Tamar Valley you are a hop, skip and a jump from the cool-climate wineries of the region, including Holm Oak Vineyards, Small Wonder Wines, Westella Vineyard & Cellar to name a few. Start planning your wine adventure with Tamar Valley Wines interactive map.
Nature lovers are catered for too with nearby Holwell Gorge Reserve, a narrow gorge and fern glade with beautiful tall trees, some up to 60 metres high, three waterfalls and a scenic walking track. The town is also close to Greens Beach which is one of the entry points to Narawntapu National Park, the perfect place for great walks and some wildlife spotting.
Beaconsfield is a 40-min drive (40 km) north-west of Launceston.