Gold was first discovered along Reedy Creek in 1851, placing it at the dawn of the Victorian Gold Rush. Unlike many other fields that boomed and busted, Reedy Creek remained a consistent producer of gold across generations. Known for its coarse alluvial gold, the field has yielded everything from fine flakes to nuggets exceeding 30 ounces.
During its peak in the 1850s–1870s, thousands of miners worked the creek system, creating miles of diggings, puddlers, and sluice channels. By the early 1900s, deep lead and drift mining was established, and even today, new gold continues to be found in the gravel bars, flood zones, and bench terraces along the creek.
Famous for large waterworn nuggets, with documented finds over 30 oz, including gold resting directly on bedrock
Gold often occurs with ironstone, clay-bound gravels, and coarse sands in ancient gutters
Multiple leads and tributary gullies still yield gold to detectors and panners, especially after floods
Remains of historic puddling machines, tailings heaps, and hand-dug shafts are visible throughout the region
Regular modern gold finds make this one of the most active recreational prospecting areas in Victoria
Detectorists searching for coarse alluvial nuggets in shallow gravels
Panners working known flood zones and gutter bends
History lovers exploring one of Victoria’s most iconic goldfields
Beginners and seasoned prospectors alike – this is an ideal “first goldfield”
The Reedy Creek goldfield spans areas of crown land, state forest, and roadside reserves, most of which are legally accessible with a Victorian Miner’s Right. Some sections cross into private property, so always check land status. Reedy Creek is also part of designated fossicking-friendly areas, making it a top destination for recreational gold seekers.
Still Giving Up Gold After 170+ Years – With the Reedy Creek Goldfield prospecting map, you’ll gain insider knowledge on a legendary field that has stood the test of time. Whether you're chasing your first nugget or your fiftieth, this is one goldfield where the gold is still very real—and still being found.
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