The cursed Mushroom Tunnel of Picton
Redbank Range Railway Tunnel is located in the small town of Picton, in the Macarthur Region of New South Wales, Australia. Over time, the tunnel has become a popular spot for photographers, urban explorers, and tourists seeking an offbeat experience.
When was Mushroom Tunnel built?
Commonly known as Picton Tunnel and later as Mushroom Tunnel, it was opened in February 1867. It was eventually closed to rail in 1919 when a new deviation line opened. It’s 180-metre (590 ft) long. Arms and ammunition were stored throughout its length, and at times, mustard gas tanks were also stored during World War II. Later, it was used to commercially grow mushrooms.
Why is it called Mushroom Tunnel?
Located between Picton Junction and Thirlmer, the road through the tunnel is unpaved. The tunnel earned its nickname due to the growth of mushrooms inside, which thrive in the cool, damp conditions.
Is Mushroom Tunnel open?
This disused railway tunnel, formally known as the Redbank Range Railway tunnel, is currently closed to visitors. Due to deterioration, it’s dangerous for visitors to walk through and can only be viewed from the outside to ensure visitors' safety. The Mushroom Tunnel's eerie ambiance, with its dim lighting and damp walls covered in fungi, creates a surreal atmosphere that captivates visitors. While the tunnel itself is not officially open to the public, many adventurous individuals venture inside to witness its unique beauty and capture stunning photographs. Despite its popularity, exploring the Mushroom Tunnel can be risky due to its dark and damp conditions, as well as the potential for uneven surfaces and obstacles inside. Therefore, visitors are advised to exercise caution and respect any signage or barriers indicating restricted access.
Is the Mushroom Tunnel in Picton haunted?
Buried deep in the hills behind Picton, the Redbank Tunnel was the first railway tunnel to be used by the NSW Railways. Experiencing some tragedies in its time, the tunnel is said to be cursed by a young woman by the name of Emily Bollard who was walking through Redbank Tunnel and she was hit by a train and killed in 1916. It also was a beacon for tragedy - with many local residents accidentally dying or taking their own lives within its stone walls. There are reports of lights floating above people’s heads, sudden drops in temperature, and ghostly children appearing out of the darkness in the tunnel.
Pic: Dion Clewett