THE much-loved State Coal Mine in Wonthaggi is about to get a $1.5 million shot in the arm with work about to start on the long awaited $1.5 million upgrade.

Former coalminers Dan Carr and Reg Wilson and Friends of the State Coal Mine including George Scott OAM welcomed the encouraging development.

Parks Victoria CEO Lee Miezis said the upgrade to the main heading shaft at the Wonthaggi State Coal Mine should be completed by April next year.

“Groundwork is expected to start in the next few weeks.”

“The contracts for the main heading shaft have been awarded and design work on the drift cart is proceeding,” said Mr Miezis.

“We will talk through the designs for the drift cart again later this year.”

Shotcrete is to be used in the main heading shaft to make the tunnel safer along with rock and cable bolts.

Parks Victoria is now in the process of finalising permits from Heritage Victoria.

“Heritage permits are needed so we do not lose what is special about this site.

“The drift cart needs to be re-engineered to meet modern safety standards.”

The mine’s tracks, timber sleepers, and ballast for the drift car will be replaced with new concrete sleepers, improved drainage, and a maintenance inspection pit.