Gold Panning at Venus Gold Battery with Historic Australia
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal walking on uneven surfaces required.
Overview
Step back into Queensland’s gold rush days at the Venus Gold Battery. Try your hand at panning real gold in the creeks and tailings while learning about this historic processing site near Charters Towers.
Gold Panning @ Venus Gold Battery
SAVE $$$ Get the GOLD PASS combining Gold Panning & Venus Gold Battery.Click 'GOLD PASS' in the menu
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About This Adventure
Discover the fascinating history of gold processing at the Venus Gold Battery in Charters Towers, where you can try your hand at gold panning. This engaging, hands-on experience allows visitors of all ages to search for real gold in local creeks and mine tailings, making it a memorable adventure for families and friends.
Explore the incredible Venus Gold Battery in Charters Towers and be amazed at how gold was processed during the colourful North Queensland goldrush in the 1800s..
Try your luck GOLD PANNING @ VENUS GOLD BATTERY!
Learn how to find real gold! Pan gravel and river sand sourced from local creeks and old mine tailings! Keep any gold you find! This authentic hands-on experience is suited for all age groups and popular with families, schools and students, locals and visitors.
Getting Here
200 Jardine St, Charters Towers, QLD, 4820 Charters Towers - located 137km from Townsville on the Flinders Highway. Venus Gold Battery - 4km from the Visitor Information Centre
Parking
Free parking is available outside Venus Battery. Coach parking can be arranged.
Important Information
✔ WEAR FLAT ENCLOSED SHOES - All guests must wear flat enclosed shoes. Other shoes will not be accepted.
✔ BRING A WATER BOTTLE - To keep you hydrated during the tour
✔ FAMILY GOLD PASS - Family GOLD PASS ticket holders must have at least 1 Adult and 1 Child/Teen
ALCOHOL/ ILLICIT SUBSTANCE USE The consumption of alcohol and use of illegal substances are not permitted BEFORE or DURING a tour, any client believed to be intoxicated, inebriated, or otherwise under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol will not be admitted at time of check-in.
SMOKING Smoking/ vaping is not permitted at any time during our tours. If anyone forgets this, and starts smoking, they will be asked to immediately cease. If they do not, they will be asked to leave the tour.
MOBILE / TABLET DEVICE USE Mobile and tablet devices are only to be used on tour whilst taking photographs or in an emergency. If you use your phone/ tablet for any other purpose during any of our tours, you will be asked to stop. Refusal to do so may result in you being asked to leave the tour.
Please always: • Respect the role/authority of the tour guides. • Respect other client’s experience. • Respect the historic sites visited.
Accessibility
This experience has challenges for those using wheelchairs or mobility aids, including: Uneven ground Steps Gravel/dirt/grassed pathways
Certified guide, hearing and assistance animals are permitted on tours.
Please contact Historic Australia about your accessibility needs as we may be able to assist you: bookings@historicaustralia.com.au
Suitability
The Venus Gold Battery is suitable for all ages. Prams, strollers and carriers are all welcome on tour.
Those under the age of 16 must be accompanied/supervised by an adult.
Adventure Tips
Wear Flat, Enclosed Shoes
Uneven ground and gravel paths require sturdy footwear for safety and comfort during gold panning.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Queensland’s climate can be hot—staying hydrated will improve your experience on-site.
Supervise Children Closely
The activity is family-friendly but contains hazards such as uneven terrain and water features to watch around.
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Morning visits avoid afternoon heat and give you more time for panning before crowds arrive.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Brown Snake (generally not aggressive but be cautious)
- Australian Magpie, often heard singing around the area.
History
Charters Towers was one of Australia's richest goldfields in the late 19th century, with the Venus Gold Battery central to ore processing during that boom.
Conservation
The site is managed with minimal disturbance to surrounding habitats, emphasizing preservation of both industrial heritage and local ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Charters Towers
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Flat Enclosed Shoes
Protects feet on gravel, dirt, and uneven ground common around the battery.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Shield yourself from Queensland’s strong sun during outdoor activity.
spring|summer|fall specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout your visit, crucial in the dry inland climate.
Light Jacket or Layers
Useful for cooler mornings and variable weather conditions.
winter|spring|fall specific