I get the willies just thinking about some of the old mines I used to explore around Jimtown, Balarat, the Smuggler below Riverside, and some outside Ward. Dangerous, death defying treks to find bats, old equipment, stalagmites and other treasures. That was when I young, fearless and invulnerable. Almost took a job when the mine above Jimtown was still operating. There are miles of shafts and tunnels there.

I still enjoy exploring caves but old abandoned mines--never again.