Push to reopen Glen Osmond mine

Glen Osmond's Wheal Watkins mine. Source: adelaidenow

A HISTORIC Glen Osmond mine closed since a rock fall in 2005 must be reopened to the public, the Burnside Historical Society says.

But Burnside Council has refused to fund an engineering report necessary to determine whether the Wheal Watkins Mine can be safely reopened.

The society recently asked Burnside Council to engage a consultant to investigate remedial work for the mine after two earlier consultants had differing views on what work was needed and how much it would cost.

But the council knocked back the request, saying ratepayers should not have to foot the bill.

The historical society countered the refusal with a new request to use interest cumulated from a $30,000 donation for the mine's conservation - made in 2008 and held in trust by the council - to fund the report.

"The society maintains another report is warranted to get an accurate picture of the state of Wheal Watkins and discover what's needed and the cost to rehabilitate this unique part of mining history in our nation," society president Meredith Ide said.

"Burnside Council has an asset in Wheal Watkins which, through creative thinking and judicious marketing, could be turned into a valuable education experience for all age groups."

She said it was important the investigation was undertaken in the donor's memory - the late John Clark - who was instrumental in starting tours of the mine in 1986.

"John had faith that something constructive would be done with the $30,000 to rehabilitate Wheal Watkins and make it safe so it could be reopened for tours," she said.

Burnside Mayor David Parkin said ratepayers should not fund another report.

"I have great sympathy for the position of the Burnside Historical Society and fully understand the importance of the Glen Osmond mines in the early history of Burnside," Mr Parkin said.

"Nevertheless, ratepayers have outlaid considerable funds on preservation of these mines over the years and it is a matter of judgment when enough is enough."

He said the interest on the $30,000 donation was "unlikely to be enough to pay for the required report".

The State-Heritage listed Wheal Watkins Mine was the first metal mine in Australia, with silver and lead mined from the site between 1843-1851.

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