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West Coast Heritage Centre: A Window to Tasmania's Past

Discover Tasmania's West Coast history through immersive exhibits, historic buildings, and a world-class mineral collection in Zeehan.

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Explore the rich history of Tasmania's West Coast at the West Coast Heritage Centre in Zeehan. Housed in historic buildings, the center features exhibits on mining, railways, pioneer life, and a world-class mineral collection, offering a glimpse into the region's vibrant past.

A brief summary to West Coast Heritage Centre

  • Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the extensive exhibits and historic buildings.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking between buildings and exhibits.
  • Consider visiting the Spray Tunnel and Heemskirk Motor Hotel while in Zeehan.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The West Coast Heritage Centre is located on Main Street in Zeehan. From most accommodations or shops in town, it's easily accessible by foot. Look for the historic Zeehan School of Mines and Metallurgy building; the entrance is through the green double doors. Allow a few minutes to reach the center from anywhere in central Zeehan. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Zeehan is connected to other towns in Tasmania by Tassielink buses. From the bus stop on Main Street, the West Coast Heritage Centre is a short walk. Check the Tassielink schedule for current fares and times. A one-way bus fare from Rosebery to Zeehan costs $6-8.

  • Driving

    If driving, the West Coast Heritage Centre is located on Main Street, Zeehan. Ample free parking is available on Main Street. Be aware that Main Street is quite long, so parking closer to the School of Mines building will minimize walking distance. There are no toll roads in the immediate vicinity.

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Discover more about West Coast Heritage Centre

The West Coast Heritage Centre in Zeehan is a captivating journey into Tasmania's rugged past. Once a booming silver mining town, Zeehan served as the gateway to the island's mineral-rich west coast. Today, the Heritage Centre preserves and showcases this fascinating history across a sprawling complex. The center incorporates four historic buildings: the Zeehan School of Mines and Metallurgy, the Zeehan Post Office, the Police Station-Courthouse, and the Gaiety Theatre-Grand Hotel. Within these buildings, visitors can explore over 30 themed exhibition spaces. Exhibits cover various aspects of the region's heritage, including its Aboriginal roots, the mining boom, pioneer life, and the development of railways. Highlights include the world-class mineral collection, railway locomotives and rolling stock, mining machinery, and photographic galleries dedicated to the West Coast towns. Visitors can also experience what an underground mine was like in the Crocoite Cavern. The Gaiety Theatre, once the largest concert hall in Australia, screens Edwardian films daily. The West Coast Heritage Centre offers a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

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