Meet the site
Ten Eighty is a large sinkhole in the Mount Schank field described by the CDAA as having two passages at opposite ends, algae in shallow water and excellent visibility at depth. It is graded Basic Cave and owned by Scotts Agencies Pty Ltd, and it is listed as currently closed, along with the same owner's Black Hole and Bullock Hole.
The name is thought to derive from the '1080' pest poison once used in the area, though no source consulted confirms it. Like most of the region's sinkholes, the site is a collapse doline in the Gambier limestone intersecting the water table, so the water is groundwater at a constant 14-15°C. The shallow layer grows algae in the sunlit summer months, which makes the first few metres green and murky; below that the water clears dramatically, and the two passages leading off at opposite ends give the sinkhole a more cave-like character than the simple bowls of Goulden's or Little Blue. Those passages are overhead environments and would be off-limits to Basic Cave divers, who must stay within the daylight zone.
With the site closed, there is nothing to plan beyond keeping it on the watch-list. It is included here because it appears in older site lists and on the CDAA register, and divers researching the region should know it is not currently available. If reopened, it would suit CDAA Basic Cave divers wanting a clear, deeper sinkhole with interesting features to look at from the daylight zone. As with all closed private sites, entering without permission risks further closures across the region.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Ten Eighty is recorded as Sinkhole/Cenote in Mount Gambier Sinkholes & Caves. The listed access is shore. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Planned depth
- Confirm the intended route and training requirements; the recorded maximum is not a target.
- Overhead environments
- Ask whether the plan stays entirely in open water. A wreck or cave listing is not permission or training to enter.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Ten Eighty suitable for my certification?
The record lists Cave/Cavern certification. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Ten Eighty through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Algae in the shallows; otherwise not documented
Location
A large sinkhole with passages at opposite ends on Scotts Agencies land at Mount Schank; currently closed.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
cavedivers.com.aucavedivers.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.