Gold at Killalea

DESCRIPTION

NameGold at KillaleaDescriptionAlluvial gold deposits were found at Killalea Beach (The Farm) in 1868.

Soon after, Thomas Henry set up gold mining operations at Bass Point on land farmed by Edward Killalea. Henry was experienced in gold mining, having worked in the industry in New Zealand. He employed four men who were paid four pounds, 12 shillings and nine pence per week for prospecting the gold.

Edward Killalea who leased the farm opposite the mine site received ten shillings per month from each interested mining party, and also had shares in several of the claims that had been taken up.

12 months after operations began, Thomas Alexander Reddall purchased superior equipment to assist in the operations. One horse was used to work two pumps, capable of pumping 50 gallons per minute. A well was sunk at a good depth in the sand and a good supply of water was obtained. The washing machine was six feet by three feet and included two large plates for the amalgam. (Kiama Independent 25 April 1872).

The gold mining venture did not last long.

In 1872 Edward Killalea and Thomas Alexander Reddall once again put in extra machinery and reopened gold mining operations on the beach, however Edward died later that year and operations once again ceased.

After Edwards death in 1872, Mrs. Maria Killalea sold the property 'Highly important sale unreserved, Shellharbour. Goodwill of lease, Choice dairy herd, Working bullocks, young cattle etc. …DL Dymock has received instructions from Mrs. Killalea to sell by auction, at her residence Long Point Shellharbour. Good will of lease on that truly magnificent farm on which she resides for a term of years, at a moderate rental, capable of grazing 300 head. After which the whole of her dairy stock, young cattle, working bullocks and horses, numbering 100 head more or less; pigs, household furniture, dairy utensils, drays, carts and farming implements. Also Gold washing apparatus, used at the beach….' (Kiama Independent).

John Fraser local Killalea identity recalled that quite fine gold could be found at anytime at the back of the beach.Event LocationKillalea State ParkGeolocation^[1] Last edited by: Will Chittick

Killalea State Park and Lagoon, Shell Cove, c.1987.

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PlaceKillalea State ParkSeaview - KillaleaLocalityShell CoveFamilyFraserHenryKillalea

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Gold at Killalea