Tell us about yourself

My name is Kieran, and I’m a metal detectorist from Hervey Bay, in Queensland, Australia. I create metal detecting content on Youtube using my Minelab Manticore and various coils including the Coiltek 18Mythtek. My Youtube channel is Sunstate Metal Detecting. I primarily target older beaches, as they tend to yield the most interesting mix of finds, both old and new. I love the rush of uncovering treasures that, perhaps, have not been seen in many decades, or even over a century.

What interested/attracted you to buy your first metal detector?

My first metal detector was a Minelab GoldMonster 1000 which I intended to use around the Gympie gold fields and beyond. I was always attracted to the excitement of uncovering gold missed by the old-time prospectors. Unfortunately, my work and personal life situation prevented me from making regular use of it, so I eventually switched to a Whites Surf Master PI2, later to the Minelab Equinox 800, and now the Minelab Manticore, specifically chasing treasure on local beaches and in parks. Being able to hunt for treasure locally makes metal detecting a lot more accessible, so I can dedicate more time to the hobby.

When did you first use your Coiltek coil, and what was the experience like for you?

My first Coiltek product was the 18” Mythtek for the Minelab Manticore. After hunting many of the local beaches dry of finds, I needed to find a way of uncovering fresh treasures. The 18Mythtek is the perfect companion, as it allows me to cover a lot more ground in the same amount of time, plus I have the added benefit of locating finds much deeper than before. It’s also surprisingly light for such a large coil.

How has metal detecting benefitted your lifestyle?

I have found metal detecting to be a great incentive to get outdoors and become a more active person. My professional career is quite sedentary, and I dislike going to the gym, so metal detecting helps me reach my weekly steps goal, and I can find some cool treasures along the way!

What advice would you give to someone wanting to start metal detecting?

First and foremost, don’t just think about getting started; get out there and do it! You don’t need the fanciest equipment, or the best detector to find interesting objects. The most important thing is being out there and having a go!

What has been your most significant experience or find to date?

My most significant find to date is a traders token I found on the beach. It dates back to 1863, and was for a drapery company based in Brisbane and Rockhampton. I can definitively link it to the Sisters of Mercy, who had a retreat very close to the location during the latter half of the 1800’s. I have also found a Gothic Florin, religious jewellery, unique brass buttons and other similar artefacts on the beach in the area, all of which can be linked to that specific time period.

Who or what inspired you to start detecting?

I can’t really pinpoint (excuse the pun) a specific moment in time that triggered my interest in metal detecting, but I suppose I’ve almost always had a metal detector around somewhere, whether it’s being used or not. Seeing and hearing about what other people are finding locally on Facebook was probably the most likely trigger to taking metal detecting more seriously, and then from there I wanted to share my passion for the hobby through my videos on Youtube.

What are your social media handles?

My primary platform is Youtube.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SunstateMetalDetecting

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sunstatemetaldetecting

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunstatemetaldetecting/