Power Scenic Drive

Two coal mines/open cuts feed three major power generating stations (Loy Yang A, Loy Yang B and Yallourn) all situated in a 30km zone. Coal was first discovered by accident in 1873 on the north banks of the Latrobe River by David Ryan and first mined by the Great Morwell Coal Mining Company and later by the Victorian Government. The State Electricity Commission (SECV) was formed in 1921 and by 1924 power began flowing down the transmission lines to Melbourne. To supply an increasing demand, Morwell Power Station commenced in 1958, Hazelwood Power Station in 1964, Yallourn W in 1973, Loy Yang A in 1984 and Loy Yang B in 1993. Today, only coal fired power stations at two sites remain in operation.

First stop on the Power Drive is the Jack Vines Lookout from where you can view Australia’s largest open cut coal mine, Loy Yang. Further along the road will lead you to Loy Yang A & B stations.

Highlights include:
JEERALANG POWER STATION

POWERWORKS TECHNOLOGY CENTRE & Dredger 21, the first bucket wheel excavator (dredger) to be used at the Morwell Open Cut.

YALLOURN MINE LOOKOUT

YALLOURN POWER STATION

OLD BROWN COAL MINE MUSEUM

Finish the drive at TYERS LOOKOUT which offers panoramic views of the Latrobe Valley and beyond. By day it is great for sightseers and photographers and by night you can see the Latrobe Valley twinkle.

Click on the link below to navigate your way through this drive.