National Mining Games Being Staged in Perth Today

Around 200 students from across Australia are competing in the National Collegiate Mining Games which are being staged in Perth today for the first time.

The two-day competition, being held at the University of Western Australia, were officially opened by Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion earlier today.

Students will compete in 10 events including traditional air drilling, gold panning, laying railway track and hand-chiselling concrete.

The games are part of the International Collegiate Mining Games, developed in memory of 91 people killed in America’s Sunshine Mine disaster in 1972.

Mr Marmion said the tragedy had a global impact on industry standards that had since been pivotal in protecting the lives of thousands of mine workers.

He said the games were also an important reminder of WA’s rich mining heritage and the enormous contribution the industry makes to our State’s wealth.

“The games keep traditional mining techniques alive, while strengthening the camaraderie among our future mining leaders,” Mr Marmion said.

“Whether you are a dirt screeder or an ore mucker, handy with a swede saw or aiming to set the perfect firing sequence, I wish you all the best.”

While WA has previously hosted the national mining games at the WA School of Mines in Kalgoorlie-Boulder, this is the first time they have been held in Perth.

The events are co-hosted by AusIMM student chapters from UWA, Curtin University and Murdoch University.