It is part of the West Ward of the City of Lake Macquarie local government area in Greater Newcastle.

Caledonian Collieries Limited purchased the original unworked shafts at Killingworth in 1895 and continued its sinking to a depth of 880 feet.

It was renamed West Wallsend Extended Colliery about 1915, although large K C letters continued to adorn the engine rooms.

A brick kiln was established at the colliery, as was a sawmill connected to the mine's railway by a spur.

In addition, a large wagon repair shop was opened in 1924 and not closed until April 1961, eighteen months prior to the colliery's final closure.