I had the amazing privilege of being able to share and talk about history I have found, relating to an abandoned gold mining 1850s township! I have been researching and detecting this area for the past 3 years now, forming a great friendship with 3rd generation property owners and other land owners. Today i end up putting together just a few of my favourite finds for a small display. For old scholars and other society members to share in the enjoyment of holding, talking and reminiscing on old memories or stories once told to them. This to me is truly what metal detecting is all about, the history, the learning and getting out there to meet like-minded people all around. I am a big believer in saving history for generations to come and by metal detecting and unearthing these lost relics and stories, we as detectorists are all contributing to help do so. As I always tell others...."If it's not being talked about and learnt...then it's being forgotten" Having so much interest from others this day and being able to share stories was truly amazing. I even got to meet the granddaughter to one of the mine managers houses I have detected at many times. The granddaughter in her late 80s now, had never met him unfortunately as he passed when she was only young. When I show and told her I had found 3 old English silver coins under the pear tree behind the old house, she near cried she was so overwhelmed with emotion, knowing she could be now holding what her grandfather dropped 150 odd years ago! I have been fortunate enough to be invited back next year, to host a talk and also show more amazing history of these once thriving gold mining towns. A very rewarding experience for me and many others.
Luke – Victoria, Australia
