Andrew's Take on 2025
G'day, I'm Andrew Frost, and I run the YouTube channel 'Oh That's Gold.' Unlike a lot of faceless online content, I'm a real live person, and I actually get out there, boots in the dirt, fall over, fail, and occasionally succeed in searching for gold.
My passion for prospecting has taken me to some ripper locations across Australia, and I love sharing my adventures with you IRL. If you're keen to get into gold prospecting or fossicking, stick around—I’ll try to be mildly entertaining 😃 giveaway prizes, pass on my knowledge why not hone your panning skills at home with my paydirt.
What is Gold Prospecting and Fossicking?
Gold prospecting and fossicking are all about searching for gold in its natural environment. Whether you're panning in a creek, swinging a metal detector, or digging through paydirt, it's a real thrill. Australia has a rich history of gold discovery, dating back to the 1850s gold rush. Today, many prospectors (myself included) still chase that golden dream, whether it’s for the excitement, the history, or just the love of the great outdoors.
Getting Started: Gear and Licenses
Before you set off, you’ll need some basic equipment:
Gold pan – A must-have for any prospector
Metal detector – Essential for finding deeper nuggets
Shovel and pick – For digging in the right spots
Sluice box – Helps process more material efficiently
It’s also important to check your local fossicking laws. In most Australian states, you need a fossicking licence to prospect legally. Do your research before heading out so you don’t end up in strife.
Finding the Best Gold Locations
The trick to finding gold is knowing where to look. Historic goldfields like Victoria’s Golden Triangle, Western Australia's Goldfields, and Tibooburra in New South Wales have produced some absolute crackers over the years. Researching old maps and geological surveys can give you a head start. Groups like NAPFA (NSW & ACT Prospectors and Fossickers Association) and PMAV (Prospectors and Miners Association of Victoria) provide great resources and up-to-date mapping tools.
Mastering the Skills
Metal Detecting
A good detector can be your best mate in the bush, but it takes skill to use one properly. Learn to distinguish between rubbish and real targets by practising in different environments. If you’re serious, consider a training course—it could make all the difference between finding gold and digging up bottle caps all day.
Gold Panning
Panning is a simple but essential skill. It’s all about washing away lighter material while the heavier gold settles at the bottom. If you’re new to it, my Oh That's Gold Paydirt is a top way to practise at home. It contains real gold and mimics the conditions you’ll find in the wild—so you can sharpen your skills before heading out to the field.
Responsible Prospecting
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Respect private property – Always get permission before prospecting on someone's land.
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Follow local laws – Some areas are off-limits to prospectors, so check before you dig.
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Leave no trace – Fill in holes, take your rubbish with you, and respect nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I legally use a metal detector in Australia?
Some of the best legal prospecting areas include Victoria’s Golden Triangle, Western Australia’s Goldfields, and parts of New South Wales. Always check land regulations before detecting.
What do I do if I find a gold nugget?
First off—congrats! Mark the location with GPS, take some photos, weigh your find, and decide whether to keep or sell it.
Do I need to pay tax on gold I find?
If you sell gold and make a decent profit, you might have to report it as income to the ATO. Keep records and check with a tax professional.
How can I boost my chances of finding gold?
Research gold-bearing areas, practise with your equipment, and learn from experienced prospectors. Joining a local club can be a goldmine (pun intended) of knowledge.
Want to Practise Gold Panning at Home?
If you want to hone your skills before heading into the bush, grab a bag of Oh That's Gold Paydirt! It’s got real gold and is perfect for perfecting your technique. Plus, every purchase helps support my YouTube channel and future adventures.
Click here to buy Oh That's Gold Paydirt now!
Happy prospecting, and may your pans be full of gold!
