Who says adventure is only for the young? Recently members of the Port Douglas and District Probus Club swapped their usual routines for a day of exploration at the Mt Carbine tungsten mine, many experiencing a mining operation for the very first time.

The day started with a scenic bus ride from Port Douglas, picking up a few extra members along the way, as the group made its way up the range to Mt Carbine. 

Once there, Operations Manager Ryan MacNeill welcomed the group with a safety briefing before members climbed aboard four-wheel-drive vehicles for the ultimate “up-close-and-personal” tour.

From the top of the site, the open pit stretched out below, revealing glittering quartz veins that hold the valuable tungsten metal. 

The tour then took members past the rock crushers and to the final separation area, where tungsten pellets are created using nothing more than water and gravity, so clean that fish even thrive in the mine’s wastewater ponds.

Members were fascinated by the surprising mix of heavy industry and environmental care, proving that mines can be both impressive and sustainable. 

After the tour, the group headed to the Mt Molloy Hotel for a well-earned lunch, lively conversation, and laughter, before making their way home.