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Mistress of Ceremonies, Dixie Marshall, delivered another
serving of rapid-fire quips that were right on target for the lively
audience, with good humour and lively banter the order of the
day. As the luncheon progressed, the local live music, wines and
sumptuous fare contributed to the warm-hearted atmosphere and
chatter resonating through the Ballroom.
Brian Haratsis was the keynote speaker this year. Brian’s
work in the North-West of Australia has focused on advising
major resource companies and government authorities on the
‘future plan’ for the North from a community, employment and
regulatory perspective. The release of his report entitled the
Australia 2050 Project – A Big Australia?
has provided a platform
to open discussion and understand the future drivers of Australia
ranging from globalisation, health and ageing, freight and logistics
to the future role and impacts of the resource industry.
A highlight of the day was the drawing of the WA Mining Club
Annual Raffle. Prizes including a sensational Kimberley Diamond
Company yellow diamond, an exciting trip to Cable Beach Club
Resort Broome and exquisite Linneys pearl jewellery were each
eagerly accepted by their fortunate and excited new owners.
The whole fund-raising raffle operation was again directed by
Craig Franklin, Vice President of the WA Mining Club and Director
of Unity Publications. Craig arranged the very generous sponsors
and kept the momentum going on raffle ticket sales.
Enough money was generated through the raffle to allow
Club President Neil Watson to present Dr Stephen Langford of
the Royal Flying Doctor Service with a $10,000 cheque, which
he graciously accepted. After thanking the Club, Dr Langford
explained how the organisation would put the money towards
very expensive on-board medical testing equipment so that more
lives could be saved by this essential service.
Money raised by this year’s raffle also enabled the Club to
donate funds to the WA School of Mines to develop a remote
student support fund, for students without resources readily
available to them. Neil Watson made this donation to WASM
Director Steve Hall at the Curtin campus.
The WA mining industry continues to be a field of endeavour
punctuated with more than its fair share of both pleasures and
pressures. It is reassuring to have important annual events such
as the WA Mining Club’s St Barbara’s Day celebrations occur,
where people can take time in their busy schedules to reflect on
how strong the industry’s friendship and solidarity remains.
THE YEAR THATWAS
our annual salute to
St Barbara and all she stands for
DR STEPHEN LANGFORD (RIGHT) OF RFDS
RECEIVES THE CLUB'S DONATION
GUESTS ENJOY THE FESTIVITIES
NEIL WATSON (RIGHT) CONGRATULATES THE WINNER
OF THE WAMC RAFFLE FIRST PRIZE YELLOW DIAMOND
MEMORIAL BENCH AT TROPICAL
GARDENS AT UNIVERSITY OF WA
MINESITE 2011
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