Mount Magnet
Gold Prospecting Location around Mount Magnet
Looking for a place to give gold prospecting a try around Mount Magnet?
● Download a simple map that shows areas where you can go and the major roads to those locations.
● Each map is custom made, showing the absolute latest information for any given area.
● Put it on your phone, tablet or computer. No special software required and works without internet connections.
Get This Map
Enter your email and we will create and email you the latest,high-resolution map as a PDF.
We respect your privacy. Your email will not be sold or traded to others.
Mount Magnet is one of Western Australia's original gold mining towns and holds the distinction of being the longest surviving gold mining settlement in the state. Evidence of the town's gold rush heyday can be seen in its very wide main street, three hotels, and historic buildings that have witnessed over a century of mining history.
Known as the 'hub of the Murchison,' Mount Magnet continues to serve as an important regional center for ongoing gold mining operations and prospecting activities. The town's longevity is a testament to the enduring richness of the local goldfield.
Mount Magnet emerged as one of the original gold mining towns in the Murchison region during the 1890s gold rush. Its establishment marked the beginning of organized mining activities in this part of Western Australia, and the town quickly became an important regional center.
The town was carefully planned with a very wide main street, typical of gold rush towns, to accommodate the bullock teams and carts that transported ore and supplies. This grand thoroughfare remains a distinctive feature of Mount Magnet today.
During its peak years, Mount Magnet supported multiple operating mines, a State Battery, hotels, churches, banks, and a comprehensive range of businesses. The town's strategic location made it a natural service center for the surrounding goldfields and pastoral stations.
Unlike many gold rush towns that declined and were abandoned, Mount Magnet has maintained continuous mining operations for over 125 years, earning its title as the longest surviving gold mining settlement in Western Australia. Modern mining operations continue alongside small-scale prospecting, ensuring the town's mining heritage lives on into the 21st century.
Common Questions
What makes Mount Magnet unique among gold rush towns? ▼
Mount Magnet is the longest surviving gold mining settlement in Western Australia, with continuous mining operations for over 125 years. Unlike many gold rush towns that became ghost towns, Mount Magnet has maintained its mining identity and community throughout its history.
Why is the main street so wide? ▼
Mount Magnet's very wide main street was designed to accommodate the large bullock teams and ore wagons that were essential for transport during the gold rush era. This was a common feature of planned mining towns and remains a distinctive characteristic today.
Is gold mining still active in Mount Magnet? ▼
Yes, Mount Magnet continues to have active gold mining operations, both commercial and small-scale. The enduring richness of the local goldfield has supported over 125 years of continuous mining activity, making it one of Western Australia's most persistent gold producers.
What is the Boogardie goldfield? ▼
Boogardie is the goldfield area directly west and southwest of Mount Magnet, where gold was discovered in 1891. It includes numerous historic mines such as Hill 60 and the New Chum mine, and continues to be worked by both commercial operations and prospectors.