Iron Blow Lookout

Iron Blow Lookout is a roadside scenic lookout near Gormanston on Tasmania's West Coast, overlooking the historic Iron Blow open-cut mine. Located on the Lyell Highway between Queenstown and Gormanston, it marks the site of Tasmania's first major copper discovery in 1883. The lookout offers views into the large, mineral-stained open cut and surrounding rugged landscape, with interpretive panels explaining the mining history that shaped the region.

Visitors can expect a short stop at a fenced viewing platform overlooking the large, colourful Iron Blow open cut. The site is an exposed roadside lookout with panoramic views of the former mine pit, its oxidised rock walls, and the surrounding barren hills. Interpretive signage explains the mine's history and geology. There are no buildings or shops, just parking, barriers and information panels for sightseeing and photography.

The Iron Blow was Tasmania's first major copper discovery, found in 1883 by prospectors. The rich gold and copper gossan led to the formation of the Mount Lyell Mining and Railway Company in 1893, which became one of Australia's most significant mining operations. The open cut was worked from 1883 to 1893 and later from the 1930s, shaping the development of Queenstown, Gormanston and the West Coast mining industry.

The lookout commemorates the mining heritage that defines Tasmania's West Coast. It is a key interpretive site for understanding the region's industrial history, pioneering mining community and the landscape transformation caused by over a century of copper and gold mining.