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Green ferns can be seen on both sides of the wooden track at Ferndene State Reserve
Ferndene State Reserve (photograph: Hannah Waterhouse)

Thorsbys Tunnel

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  • Parking
  • Picnic facilities
  • Toilets

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    • Leven Field Centre
      PO Box 809
      Ulverstone TAS 7315
      Phone: 03 6464 3014
    1 hour, 1.5km
    Grade 3: Some bushwalking experience recommended. Tracks may have short steep hill sections, a rough surface and many steps.
    Explore these open mining tunnels from the late 19th century at your own risk. These are unmaintained structures, with muddy and slippery ground and no lighting.

    About

    In the late 1800s, various high value minerals were found in the area surrounding Penguin. This soon led to mining leases across this part of the coast and into what is now Ferndene State Reserve.

    Today, Ferndene provides a beautiful picnic area and the opportunity to explore the mining history in this area. Follow this enchanting short walk through the towering tree ferns and meandering creeks until you reach Brownings and Thorsbys Tunnels. These tunnels were used to mine a variety of minerals including silver and copper. Viability of the operations was questioned and eventually the operations ceased. ​

    While walking, enjoy the sound of the burbling creek below you and watch the woodland birds flitting through the trees. You may be lucky and see a wallaby hiding amongst the ferns in the dappled sunlight. 

    The track climbs approximately 30m elevation over a distance of 750m.

      Buy a map from TasMap

      ​Only a 15 minute drive from Ulverstone (17km), head west towards Burnie on the A1 Bass Highway. Take the South Road exit towards Penguin. Turn onto the Sports Complex Avenue, then left onto Ironcliffe Road. Follow Ironcliffe Road for 4.6km until reaching Ferndene State Reserve. There is limited parking available.​

      Where possible, please avoid driving in our reserves at night. You are sharing the roads with our native wildlife, so take it slow and watch out for animals on the road.

      ​Thorsbys Tunnel walk is in Ferndene State Reserve.

      No campfires are permitted. Dogs, horses or motor bikes are not permitted.

      There are toilets and a picnic shelter available near the carpark.​

      There is non-potable water available at the toilets.

      ​Find out other essential information for visiting Tasmania's parks and reserves on our know before you go section.

      While PWS do not encourage exploration of the mining tunnels, you can do so at your own risk. These are unmaintained structures from the late 19th and early 20th century. There is no lighting and the ground is muddy and slippery.​

      ​Remember the safe walking guidelines

      • ​Plan to walk safely
      • Be prepared
      • Avoid walking alone and let someone know your plans
      • Record your trip intentions in the log books 
      • Be prepared to turn back

      Walker safety - day walks​

      ​Even for a short walk on a fine day, carry a light pack with a weatherproof jacket, warm hat, water (1 litre per person for every 3 hours of walking), some high energy food and a first aid kit that includes an emergency space blanket. At the same time, be prepared for bright sunshine—carry a sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen. Insect repellent can also make your walk more comfortable and be sure to take a rubbish bag and carry your rubbish out with you.

      If your mobile phone has a signal t​​ake it with you. Limit use of your phone to conserve the battery. If your short walk takes you into very remote areas it would be wise to pack extra food and an emergency shelter or tent.

      For full safety information please refer to Safety in parks.