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How much did a gold licence cost in 1851?
Miner’s licences were first issued on 1 September 1851 and cost 30 shillings a month (later reduced to £1 a month or £8 a year). The licence fees were supposed to cover the cost of maintaining the police force on the goldfields.
What happened to miners who didn’t have a licence?
Licences had to be carried at all times and there was very little leniency shown by police. Even if a miner had lost his licence, or it had been destroyed in dirty or wet working conditions, he could be fined or gaoled.
What happened to diggers who did not produce their license?
Diggers claimed that police were beating people up or chaining them to trees if they could not produce a licence, and undertaking unnecessary inspections on people they didn’t like. Resentment of the licence fee and the conduct of police in their “licence hunts” was expressed across the Victorian goldfields.
When did the miners burn their licences?
Police invaded the mines to enforce the licensing laws, in late November 1854. The miners refused to cooperate, and burned their licences and stoned police. Several miners were seriously wounded.
Why did miners burn their licenses?
Eureka Stockade Miners held meetings and protests to show their dislike for the licences. In December 1854, near Ballarat, about 500 miners built and occupied a fortress that became known as Eureka Stockade. Miners burned their licences and vowed to resist the government’s authority.
Why did the miners burn their licences?
The Eureka Stockade was caused by a disagreement over what gold miners felt were unfair laws and policing of their work by government. Police invaded the mines to enforce the licensing laws, in late November 1854. The miners refused to cooperate, and burned their licences and stoned police.
How much is a gold prospecting Licence in Australia?
A Tourist Fossicking Authority costs $92.50 and is valid for up to 10 years. Make sure you are familiar with the land access rules and your legal obligations before you apply.
How many miners were killed in the Eureka Hotel fire?
At least 22 diggers and six soldiers were killed. The rebellion of miners at Eureka Stockade is a key event in the development of Australia’s representational structures and attitudes towards democracy and egalitarianism.