Today the Gold Industry Group announced a long-term, community engagement project in Perth expected to attract millions of students, tourists and families. 

The Perth Mint 1936

The virtual Heart of Gold Discovery Trail and gold panning activity in Elizabeth Quay will provide a fun and interactive way for visitors to learn about Western Australia’s storied gold industry and its importance to our economy.

Gold Industry Group Chairman Richard Hayes addressed members and industry colleagues at its Innovation in Mining breakfast with Deloitte at the Diggers & Dealers Mining Forum this morning.

“One of our aims is to lead initiatives and create change that will positively influence future generations,” he said. 

“This long-term initiative will educate the community on the history and importance of our gold industry, now and into the future.”

Gold Bars 1936

Using the latest innovative iBeacon technology, visitors will be able to download an app that will take them on a virtual, gold treasure hunt from Elizabeth Quay to the historic Perth Mint. 

“The discovery of gold in Australia paved the way for an industry that has contributed to the growth and development of our nation. Western Australia’s rich history of gold mining dates back to the 1880s and today, the gold industry employs more than 50,000 Australians,” Mr Hayes said.

“This is an exciting and innovative project. The Heart of Gold Discovery Trail will lead visitors to points of historic significance and deliver real-time content via smartphone or tablet.”

Golden Beauty

A sculpture of the famous “Golden Eagle” nugget, one of the largest gold nuggets to be found in Western Australia, will mark the start of the trail in Elizabeth Quay. Pop-up, interactive gold prospecting activities will also take place throughout the year.

As Chief Executive Officer of The Perth Mint and a strong advocate for gold, Mr Hayes explained the important role of the Group and what can be achieved collectively. 

“This is one way in which being united will continue the legacy of gold in Australia,” he said.

“Not only will millions of families and tourists be exposed to Australia’s gold industry through this project, but primary and secondary school students will have the opportunity to participate through the integration of lesson plans into the Australian Curriculum.”

Gold is a significant part of the history of our state and our nation, and is vital to our future. The Gold Industry Group’s ultimate reason for being is to provide a unified voice for the industry and to promote gold across Australia and beyond. It is about making sure the wider community is aware of, and understands, the contribution and value the gold industry brings to society.

The launch is proposed for early 2017.

Thanks to The Perth Mint and Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority for providing the images and footage.