The City of Burnside is home to Wheal Watkins Mine, based in the foothills of Glen Osmond. Wheal Watkins Mine formed part of Australia’s first metalliferous mines, open from 1843 to 1850. The 'Wheal Watkins Historic Site' is a registered State Heritage Place (ID 11607) and includes the Wheal Watkins Mine. While general access inside the mine adits is not recommended for safety reasons, Council would like to preserve the mine for historical prosperity.

A safety condition assessment of the inner workings and 6-fathom / 20-fathom adits of the mine was completed by a consulting engineer who has recommended a range of works to conserve and stabilise this important asset. Council requires a timber support structure to be constructed at both portals of the mine.