Life on the Australian goldfields in the 19th century was difficult. Housing was initially just tents or bark huts, though later brick houses were built. Clothing worn by miners and their families was rough and worn. Transportation to and around the goldfields was primarily on foot or horseback in the early years, with the first rail lines later providing another option. Miners brought tools like pans, cradles, buckets and shovels to extract gold from rivers and shafts. Food was scarce and expensive, with the diet consisting mainly of meat, bread and potatoes. Schools were initially just leaky tents, though later more permanent structures were erected, though many children still lacked access to education. Leisure activities for children included games