WHAT IS A PUDDLING MACHINE?
Puddling technology was developed entirely in Victoria from 1854. The need for these machines arose due to the enormous amounts of clay soil in the region which needed to be broken up to retrieve the gold. Puddling machines are a very significant development in the history of Victorian gold mining, as they are the only technology or method developed entirely on the Victorian Goldfields.
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Information sign at the nearby Battery Dam, an old mine site turned eucalyptus distillery, regarding puddling machines.
Earth Resources offers the following concise description of a puddling machine:
Puddling machines were pioneered on the Victorian goldfields in 1854 as an affordable means of processing gold-bearing clay on a large scale.
A horse dragged a harrow repeatedly through a circular, barklined trough full of clay and water, 'puddling' the mixture into a thin sludge. Any gold freed from the lumpy clay would sink, remaining behind on the bottom of the trough after the watery sludge was drained off. A clean-up of the residue, using tin-dish or cradle, would bring the gold finally to light.
Photograph of a gold puddling machine used in Victorian gold mining.
Image source: Federation University Australia E.J. Barker Library (top floor) Mount Helen Victoria
GOLD PROSPECTING IN THIS AREA
Maryborough is a popular destination for gold prospectors. Countless massive gold nuggets have been found throughout the region since the 1850s, with significant discoveries still being unearthed today! If you're interested in trying your luck gold prospecting around Maryborough, whether it's with a gold detector, gold pan, or sluice, we've put together
this handy guide to get you started.
Gold prospecting is allowed in the area around this gold puddler, however it is important that you do not disturb the puddler itself as it is an important historical feature which must be preserved.
GEOLOGICAL MAP OF THE MARYBOROUGH GOLD FIELD, EARLY 20TH CENTURY
Geological map of the Maryborough gold field which shows historical features in superb detail, including reefs, leads, gullies/flats, and old workings. Originally published by the Department of Crown Lands and Survey, early 20th century. High quality, durable A1 print in a satin finish. Large, 594 x 891 mm. Go to online shop.
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The model still exists and is in a shed in Swan Hill.