The Bendigo resident worked as civil engineer for the City of Greater Bendigo but retired three years ago before taking up a volunteer position as a mine guide at the Central Deborah Gold Mine. 

Mr Sampson said considering his love of Bendigo and his extension knowledge of mining, the attraction was the perfect fit. 

"I love meeting the people," he said. 

"They come in with an expectation.

"It's really easy for me to meet those expectations.

"Nothing here is fake. It's all real. The miner used these mines back in the (1800s)."

Mr Sampson volunteers every Wednesday - alternating between mornings and afternoons. 

He said his knowledge of the history of Bendigo has grown significantly since his time at the goldmine.

"We get people from all over the world," he said. 

"We also get lots of locals - it has been very busy during the school holidays." 

For more about the goldmine visit, www.central-deborah.com