Not many realise that in the late nineteenth century there was a considerable amount of gold and mineral mining in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. This includes Ringwood where antimony was discovered in 1869. An antimony mining operation was then established near what is now known as Ringwood Lake. The mine’s main shaft was over 100 metres deep and it operated until the late 1890s. The area is now a reserve and has some fascinating information and old equipment on site. There was once a replica of the original miner’s hut on display, but after it was burnt down, the local council did not rebuild it. There was also a “poppet head” which was removed, presumably for safety reasons. However, the original hoist wheel from the poppet head is on display and commemorative plaques now stand in place of the hut and poppet head. If you are visiting Ringwood Lake, it would be a shame not to visit this display. One problem is that it is located in the back of the lake reserve, behind trees and easily missed. There is ample parking nearby as well as toilets and BBQ facilities. A fantastic children’s play area is also located a few minutes walk away.