GC3F3TQ Red Robin Mine (Traditional Cache) in Victoria, Australia created by skullracing

GC3F3TQ ▼

A cache by skullracing Message this owner

Hidden : 3/18/2012

Difficulty:

Terrain:

Size: Size: regular (regular)

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Geocache Description:

The Red Robin Reef was discovered by William Benjamin "Bill" Spargo (1888 - 1959) in the 1940's. Although he had other occupations during his tenure at Mount Hotham, his interest in geology and gold saw him continually exploring the Higginbotham and Mount Loch areas. Evidence of the work that he carried out single handedly can still be seen in various areas today.

The traces of gold gradually led Bill beyond the summit of Loch to the North-Western faces where he discovered the mine which he named the "Red Robin" from the friendly little birds which are evident at Hotham in the snow time.

At the time his discovery was met with a blaze of publicity. Red Robin mine was being touted as the highest in altitude mine and the richest (112 ounces per ton in the first trial crushing) in Victoria. His success captured public imagination and sparked the State's last gold rush. Bill Spargo worked his mine for 10 years before retiring to Magnetic Island.

Since its discovery the Red Robin mine has been worked virtually continuously. Spargo sold his mine in 1952, but evidence of his activities still remains on site. Subsequent miners, including the present operator, Ken Harris, have continued to work the mine in traditional or "old-style" ways, relying on their own brands of inventiveness to counter the difficulties posed by extreme Alpine conditions. With its working battery, the mine is a unique representative of the traditional type of mining operation that dominated the Victorian Alps from the 1860s to 1950s. Of particular importance are the remains of the vertical boiler next to the battery house. The boiler, used to heat water to facilitate plate amalgamation of gold in sub-zero conditions, evinces the first (and so far only) attempt to operate the battery over winter.

To proceed to GZ, park at the Mt Loch car park and continue on the trail toward Mt Loch. Red Robin mine is approximately a 6km hike from the car park.

PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE MINE SITE IS PRIVATELY OWNED AND SHOULD BE RESPECTED ACCORDINGLY

Be Prepared

The best months for walking are from November through to April, however, weather conditions can change rapidly, and snowfalls and blizzards can occur at any time of the year.

Be prepared with:

• Wind and waterproof jackets
• Warm clothing – hat, gloves, sunglasses, and strong footwear
• Food and water
• First aid kit and sunscreen
• Map and compass
• Check the weather forecast before departing
• Let someone know where you are going
• Mobile phone (reception in some areas)

Caution

The 2003 bushfires have damaged snowgums which are now regenerating, but dead branches are shedding with the new growth. High wind days may result in falling limbs and branches. It is not recommended to use the track on windy days. During the warmer months snakes can be found along the track.