The partnership between miner and pit pony in Collinsville began with the commencement of coal mining in 1921. Horses were used below ground hauling coal to the surface, and in the long journey above ground to deliver the coal to port. Despite their name, the Collinsville pit ponies were typically Clydesdale horses, renowned for their strength, and able to work efficiently in the larger mine tunnels.

During their working life, the pit ponies formed strong bonds with their handlers and the other miners around them. Their even temperament made them suitable for the never-ending darkness and loud noises, while superior intelligence ensured they never endured a heavy load, and always found unguarded cribs to munch on.

By 1987 machinery underground had assumed many of the pit pony’s tasks and mine management in Collinsville were eager to retire the ponies. In order to protect their rights, the final two pit ponies were made honorary members of the union, and became subject to the law of seniority – the longest serving miner would be the last to leave the mine. In 1990, however, it became clear to miners and management that the era of the pit pony had passed and the final two ponies were retired, living out their final days on a nearby grazing property, in the care of previous handler Bill Hoffman.

In 2013, after struggling with dropping coal prices and the GFC, the Collinsville Coal Mine closed its doors and widespread unemployment overtook the small town. The mine closure affected everyone. Small businesses closed, housing prices dropped dramatically, and many local families were forced to move away, resulting in smaller schools and fewer opportunities for the remaining children. We have since realised that the future of Collinsville must be diverse, we cannot rely solely upon the coal mining industry to define our identity. Our rich, proud and unique heritage must hold the key to our success in the future.

The Collinsville Pit Pony Experience will centre on the construction of one large pit pony in the centre of town. Molded from cast bronze, the pit pony will be a long-lasting, child-friendly monument displaying the strong community spirit in Collinsville. Behind the pit pony sculpture will stand a donators wall with the names of each donator on display. We want the project to be built by the community, for the community, and recognising every contribution, both local and abroad, will enhance this spirit of unity.

In addition to the pit pony sculpture and donators wall, three “selfie” walls will be constructed about the town. Located to encourage a tourist trail through the town, the walls will detail scenes of the pit ponies and miners at work and will be designed to allow tourists to take photos of themselves in-situ. The trail will finish at the No.1 State Tunnel model outside the Workers Club where visitors can learn about the Collinsville Mine Disaster, and proceed to visit the Coalface Experience. A smart phone app will be developed to guide visitors through the town, following the historic trail, and provide stories about the pit ponies and their place in the history of Collinsville. Several lines of merchandise will also be developed - stickers, belt buckles, a children's book about the pit ponies, and a resin model of our pit pony sculpture. These items are available as rewards in the various categories on the right. Finally, we will purchase a 3D printer to generate pit pony models for sale. Working in conjunction with the high school, the 3D printer will be available for use by students to develop CAD & 3D printing skills. 



Thank you for considering our project! We are excited at the prospect of establishing Collinsville as the Pit Pony Capital of Australia and giving our loved horses the recognition they deserve. The development of the Pit Pony Experience will cement Collinsville as an important tourist destination in North Queensland and help us forge a new industry for the town and future generations.